Hindustan Times (Lucknow)

Button still waiting on Mclaren for 2014 ride

IN LIMBO After a disappoint­ing season so far, the Englishman is yet to get an extension from Mclaren

- sportsdesk@hindustant­imes.com

SPA-FRANCORCHA­MPS: Jenson Button is hoping to stay with McLaren next year, despite their disappoint­ments in 2013, but is still waiting for the team to sign a contract.

The 33-year- old Briton revealed his position at the Belgian Grand Prix on Friday, but made clear he has no intention of seeking a drive elsewhere. Button said: “I think I have a contract for next year, but I don’t think it has a signature on it yet though... I really want to be here next year.

“You might think that is strange after this season, but I think this year has been good for us in a way. We will be a much stronger team next year.

“I want to be here next year, but I haven’t heard the confirmati­on of that yet from the team -- and you have to wait for that.”

The 2009 world champion said he was aware that there may be vacancies at both champions Red Bull and with Ferrari, but distanced himself from speculatio­n suggesting he may be a contender. KIMI SAYS LOTUS KNOW WHAT TO DO TO KEEP HIM Kimi Raikkonen made clear on Friday that his Lotus Formula One team had issues to resolve before he could have serious discussion­s about staying on next season.

Speaking to reporters at the Belgian Grand Prix after crying off ‘sick’ on Thursday in the face of a wave of speculatio­n about his future, Raikkonen said he had yet to sign a contract with anyone for 2014.

“It’s the same as four weeks ago. Nothing has changed, apart from more rumours and more teams,” he said, facing a scrum of reporters in the team motorhome with his eyes shielded by sunglasses.

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