Button Refuses to Rule Out Ferrari Approach Amid 2013 F1 Rumours
Jenson Button has declined to deny speculation linking him to Ferrari for 2013, as the Italian team weighs options for Felipe Massa's seat.
Jenson Button has not dismissed speculation that Ferrari have approached him about a possible Formula One drive for 2013, as the Italian team reconsiders its line-up following uncertainty over Felipe Massa's future. Button, currently under contract with McLaren, addressed the rumour in Budapest but stopped short of issuing a denial.
The speculation intensified at the Hungarian Grand Prix, where Ferrari's decision to let an option on Massa's contract lapse fuelled talk of a replacement. Brazilian journalist Livio Oricchio reported that confidence in Massa's renewal had faded after conversations with sources close to Ferrari. Italian outlet Autosprint noted that Button, when asked about the Ferrari interest, said the team “know about my contractual situation” and added, “never say never.”
Button, 32, remains tied to McLaren for the 2013 season, but his comments in Budapest have kept the rumour alive. The British driver’s refusal to categorically deny any Ferrari approach has drawn attention, particularly with the Scuderia’s options for next year still unresolved.
Ferrari's search for alternatives
With Massa’s position under scrutiny, Ferrari are believed to be considering several options. Kimi Raikkonen, who won the world championship with Ferrari in 2007 before leaving at the end of 2009, has been named as a potential candidate. Team principal Stefano Domenicali, speaking to Finnish broadcaster MTV3, praised Raikkonen’s attitude during his previous stint at Maranello, highlighting his composure and support for the team even in difficult seasons.
Raikkonen, who left Formula One for rallying after his Ferrari contract ended, is reportedly viewed as a viable alternative to Massa. Domenicali’s remarks suggest the team values Raikkonen’s previous contributions and professional approach, especially alongside current lead driver Fernando Alonso. The Finn’s name has surfaced in the same round of speculation as Button’s, indicating Ferrari are keeping their options open.
Implications for McLaren and the 2013 grid
Button’s contractual status with McLaren makes any immediate move unlikely, but his comments have left the door open. For McLaren, the prospect of losing a world champion would require contingency planning, though there is no indication from the team or Button that a departure is imminent. Ferrari’s search for a partner to Alonso for 2013 continues to drive speculation, with both Button and Raikkonen now firmly in the conversation.
As the Formula One paddock heads into the summer break, attention will remain on Ferrari’s next move. Massa’s future remains uncertain, and the team’s approach to potential replacements is likely to be a key storyline in the second half of the 2012 season.
- Jenson Button remains under contract with McLaren for 2013.
- Ferrari have not confirmed any approach for Button or Raikkonen.
- Felipe Massa's future with Ferrari is unresolved.
