Button still enjoying F1 as 2017 decision looms

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As he ponders his future in Formula 1, with several available options in the works, Jenson Button is still enjoying life as a Grand Prix driver.

The 2009 world champion is currently facing uncertainty with regard to his plans for 2017, uncertain whether he will remain at McLaren, possibly transfer to Williams, or simply call it a day on his F1 career.

Regardless of the uncertainty, and despite his last win dating all the way back to 2012, Button still enjoys his life in the fast lane as he said in an interview with German publication Auto Bild.

"Driving in Formula 1 is still fun for me. But it's not just about driving, it's also about winning. And for a long time now I haven't been doing that."

Next year will see the introduction of several fundamental technical changes which will include wider tyres and increased downforce, developments Button views as positive for the sport.

"It's in the right direction, the sport is back on the way up.

"Hopefully we get more races like Barcelona, which everyone loved because four cars fought for victory. That only two drivers from the same manufacturer fight for the title on their own is not what the sport needs."

As McLaren ponders its plans for next season, with only Fernando Alonso confirmed at the Woking-based outfit, Button is still unsure of the team's future level of performance but underlines the necessity to return to the winner's circle.

"I don't know what it will be like next year. What we can say is that the top three teams will also be at the front next year, and hopefully McLaren-Honda as well, looking at our development this year and the talented people on the team.

"Look, it's conceivable, but so far it's just reading tea leaves. It's nice to see that things are looking up and I'm part of the program, but if you're not on the podium and fighting for wins, you're never happy."

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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.