Ebullient Button ecstatic with P9 performance

Jenson Button sounded more like a young spring chicken than a veteran Grand Prix driver on the verge of retirement after qualifying P9 for the Malaysian GP, just behind Nico Hulkenberg's Force India.

The British driver delivered a few rants over the radio in the first two segments of quali as he stumbled upon inattentive drivers cruising on the racing line, but the McLaren driver still managed to access the final top 10 show down.

P9 was probably the result of his best effort, but one which leaves him in a good position for tomorrow's race after improving his McLaren-Honda's set-up.

"I'm very happy and really enjoyed qualifying," Button enthused.

"P9 isn't too bad considering the Force India's pace. I'm very happy with that and to be in front of both Williams.

"I think we're in a reasonable position for tomorrow, we should be able to race the cars around us, there's no reason why not."

Button underlined his McLaren-Honda's progress since hitting the track on Friday morning, admitting to really coming to grips with his mount in qualifying.

"We've improved the car a lot since yesterday and this afternoon was the first time I really felt comfortable with the car. It's been interesting with the temperatures dropping and what to do with the balance of the car."

Given his enthusiasm and good spirit, Button was asked if he was ready for "another 300", but the 2009 world champion responded tongue-in-cheek.

"No, but 300 laps I could probably still do..."

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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.