Jenson Button is expecting a highly emotional return to Silverstone this weekend ahead of the British Grand Prix.
For one, there is a possibility it may be Button’s last Formula One race at the venerable venue, although he is not anticipating that to be the case.
Although his contract with McLaren is up at the end of the year, the 34-year-old would like to believe he will be offered a new deal.
One reason is McLaren have again handed Button a car that is off the pace of their main rivals.
McLaren boss Ron Dennis, however, has stirred the pot by insisting Button should be ‘trying harder’ following the impressive arrival of rookie team-mate Kevin Magnussen who will have served as “a wake-up call”.
For Button, though, the primary reason behind his potentially tough weekend is it will be his first at Silverstone without father John, who passed away in January this year.
To that end, Sunday has been designated as ‘Pink for Papa’ day, with pink t-shirts on sale in aid of the Henry Surtees Foundation.
The charity was set up by John Surtees, a world champion on two and four wheels, in memory of son Henry that assists and supports people with injuries caused by accidents.
The pink t-shirt is a reminder of the ‘lucky’ pink shirts worn every Grand Prix Sunday by John Button.
“This year will be extra special for me, and probably a little more emotional,” said Button.
Unfortunately for Button, the chances of him ending his wretched podium hoodoo are slim.
Button is haunted by the fact that not once in 14 previous attempts in his home race has he managed to finish in the top three and soak up the acclaim of fervent supporters.
“We won’t get on the podium at Silverstone. No chance!” said a forlorn Button.
“As it’s my home race I’ll get an extra lift, but it won’t make us go any quicker – I wish it would.”
