FIA more open since GPDA letter - Button

Jenson Button believes the FIA has become more responsive to the Grand Prix Drivers Association since the group's public letter was sent to the sport's governing body back in March.

A veteran of 296 Grand Prix and the longest serving driver on the F1 grid, Button co-signed along with GPDA Chairman Alexander Wurz and Sebastian Vettel a letter publicly slamming how the sport is run.

The initiative was intended to draw the attention of F1's power-brokers to concerns voiced by fans and drivers alike, notably the fact that the latter are awarded no input on the sport's general direction.

But according to Button, the FIA has since opened up to ideas emanating from the GPDA although not publicly saying as much.

"We feel that we do have a say anyway and since our comments earlier in the year, the FIA have been more open to our opinions, but they would prefer it is behind closed doors rather than in the press," Button told ESPN.

Many of Formula 1's current controversial topics are centered around drivers, like discussions on track limits, the debate over how restrictive radio messages should be, or the postponed introduction of the 'halo' cockpit safety device.

The GPDA is asking merely asking to assume an advisory role with regard to all of the above, and more.

"I think that we have a reasonable say but you always want more because you always think we have more to give, rather than take, and that’s definitely what we’re here to do — make the sport a better place."

Ocon replaces Haryanto at Manor

Felipe Nasr writes exclusively for F1i about Hungary, Germany and the summer break

Exclusive Marcus Ericsson Q&A

Explaining the F1 summer break

Chris Amon: A legend's career in pictures

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