Button: Spa “doesn’t suit” MP4-30

Just like McLaren-Honda team-mate Fernando Alonso, Jenson Button braces for a challenging Belgian Grand Prix weekend, as the 2009 world champion claims Circuit de Spa-Francorchamps “doesn’t suit” the MP4-30.

After a very tough first half of the season, the British outfit and its Japanese engine partner entered the traditional summer break on the back of an encouraging double points finish in Hungary.

While Button is excited to resume racing, especially with Honda bringing an upgraded power unit to Belgium, the 35-year-old does not think McLaren will be able to take massive strides forward on this typical power-hungry track.

“I'm really looking forward to getting back into the car and seeing where we stand among our nearest competitors,” said the Briton.

“We can't pretend that we're expecting a huge jump forward in performance - especially at this circuit, as it doesn't suit our car's characteristics - but, after the break, I'm feeling refreshed, positive, and ready to continue the solid progress we've made so far.”

Like many of his fellow Formula One drivers, Button has a soft spot for the Belgian Grand Prix venue, whose iconic layout features fast and sweeping curves like Eau Rouge, Pouhon, and Blanchimont, thus presenting one of the most daunting challenges on the calendar.

“I love Spa, I won there back in 2012, and, even when I'm not battling for the lead, I really enjoy the racing there as it usually produces fantastic grand prix.

“It's a privilege as an F1 driver to be able to go to the circuit in the morning, get in the car, and race through some of the most legendary corners in motorsport.”

Exclusive Q&A with Red Bull team principal Christian Horner

Click here for a gallery of the biggest crashes at Spa-Francorchamps 

Keep up to date with all the F1 news via Facebook and Twitter