'Button doesn't need a track test,' says Boullier

40

McLaren race director Eric Boullier says that Jenson Button's return to action at Monaco next month will be prepared adequately with simulator work.

Button will make a one-off return in the Principality, subbing for Indy-bound Fernando Alonso. But many have been surprised by McLaren's decision not to award the Brit with a proper track test of the new-spec MCL32.

But Boullier believes the simulator is in fact the best option for Button.

"Given the technology of this car, we decided that organising a test would not have been useful," he is quoted by Spain's El Confidencial.

"The simulator is very realistic so it's best for him to test the car there," the Frenchman added.

"After 10 laps, he'll be fine," said Boullier.

Williams' Felipe Massa, however, warned that the 2017 cars are "very different" to the cars that Button last raced in 2016, requiring a higher level of fitness.

But Button said: "I've done a lot of triathlon training recently, so I have no worries."

Boullier agreed: "He's only missed a handful of grands prix and he's as fit as a fiddle. And he's always been good at Monaco. He'll do a great job, I'm sure of that."

GALLERY: F1 drivers' wives and girlfriends

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

Phillip van Osten

Motor racing was a backdrop from the outset in Phillip van Osten's life. Born in Southern California, Phillip grew up with the sights and sounds of fast cars thanks to his father, Dick van Osten, an editor and writer for Auto Speed and Sport and Motor Trend. Phillip's passion for racing grew even more when his family moved to Europe and he became acquainted with the extraordinary world of Grand Prix racing. He was an early contributor to the monthly French F1i Magazine, often providing a historic or business perspective on Formula 1's affairs. In 2012, he co-authored along with fellow journalist Pierre Van Vliet the English-language adaptation of a limited edition book devoted to the great Belgian driver Jacky Ickx. He also authored "The American Legacy in Formula 1", a book which recounts the trials and tribulations of American drivers in Grand Prix racing. Phillip is also a commentator for Belgian broadcaster Be.TV for the US Indycar series.