McLaren considers pay rise to secure Button amid Ferrari interest
McLaren is prepared to improve Jenson Button’s contract terms to keep him from a potential move to Ferrari, with the team set to exercise its 2012 option.
McLaren is prepared to offer Jenson Button a pay rise to prevent the 2009 Formula One world champion from being tempted away by Ferrari, according to reports published in September 2011. The Woking-based team is set to take up its option on Button for the 2012 season but is now considering improved terms to secure his long-term future.
Button, who joined McLaren in 2010 after his championship-winning season with Brawn GP, confirmed that the team holds an option for 2012. While McLaren is expected to activate this clause, recent press reports indicate the team is so satisfied with his performances that it is likely to offer an extended deal on improved terms in the coming weeks.
The prospect of a pay rise comes as Ferrari has reportedly checked with Button’s management about his availability as a possible replacement for Felipe Massa. With speculation mounting over Massa’s future at Ferrari, Button’s consistent results and experience have made him an attractive option for the Italian team.
Contract talks and McLaren's position
McLaren team principal Martin Whitmarsh has stated he would be quick to sign Button to a new multi-year contract, but Button himself has expressed reluctance to commit to a long-term deal at this stage. The team’s willingness to improve his contract is seen as a direct response to Ferrari’s interest and a sign of McLaren’s satisfaction with his contribution alongside Lewis Hamilton.
Button’s future at McLaren has been the subject of ongoing speculation, with previous comments from management indicating that discussions were not a priority earlier in the year. This latest development suggests a shift in approach as rival teams begin to circle. For more on McLaren’s evolving stance, seeBoullier: Button’s McLaren future not under discussion yet.
What it means for McLaren and Button
If McLaren secures Button with an improved deal, it would provide stability to the team’s driver line-up and help counteract interest from Ferrari. Button’s experience and ability to work within the team have been valuable assets, especially during periods of intra-team tension. His willingness to keep contract talks short-term, however, may keep the situation fluid as the 2012 season approaches.
