McLaren racing director Eric Boullier says the announcement of Jenson Button's contract extension is "incredibly motivating" for the team.
Button's future became the centre of speculation following comments he made at the Singapore Grand Prix, with the 2009 world champion declining to comment on his plans in Japan. However, following the announcement of a new McLaren sponsor last week it was also confirmed Button would remain with the team in 2016 and Boullier says it provides a boost to the team.
“After the challenges and emotion of Suzuka, it’s been a very important week for the McLaren-Honda team," Boullier said. "We’ve announced a new partner for the 2016 season and beyond, Chandon, and confirmed that Jenson will be continuing to race with us next year.
"Both of these announcements are incredibly motivating for the whole team, and we go to Sochi with renewed enthusiasm and excitement."
Button himself says it is helpful for McLaren to know he is fully behind its project to try and improve with Honda.
“I’m really pleased that my plans for next year have been confirmed," Button said. "I’m fully committed to this team and have strong faith in the incredibly hard work that’s going on behind the scenes in Woking and Sakura. We’ll keep our heads down and keep pushing hard to improve our car at every race weekend."
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