Button puts Super GT title defense before WEC duties

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Jenson Button will take a pass on two rounds of the 2019 World Endurance Championship, opting to put his Super GT title defense at the forefront of his priorities.

Button's limited programme with SMP Racing in the WEC will see the Brit skip the Sebring and Spa rounds, both of which clash with Super GT events in Japan.

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The 2009 F1 world champion will however be present with the Russian LMP1 squad at Le Mans in June.

"It was always clear that it wasn't going to be easy to combine my participation in the seasons of FIA WEC and Super GT," said Button.

"At the same time, to race for SMP Racing – even if I would have to miss certain rounds – is a great opportunity that I couldn't pass up.

"The Shanghai podium is an unbelievable achievement and progress for our team, and we'll keep trying and working further to secure ever greater results."

In addition to his on-track presence in the WEC and Super GT series, Button will also follow the F1 trail in 2019, the former McLaren driver having signed up to join Sky F1's commentary team.

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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.