Button hoping for new Honda deal

Honda driver Jenson Button says he is optimistic that he will be extending his stay at the Brackley-based Formula One team, despite an under-par season.

Button's contract expires at the end of the year but he remains positive that he will put pen-to-paper on a new deal to remain at Honda.

"Nothing is signed or sealed but I am hoping to be with the team," Button told BBC Oxford.

"I think the team feel the same as me," added the 28-year-old.

The Briton has struggled in an uncompetitive car, picking up just three points in 2008, with team efforts focused on a successful adaption to new technical regulations planned for 2009.

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"Can't see Button going somehow, after Honda paid Williams to let him stay "
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"It has been a really difficult season," added Button. "Halfway through we realised it wasn't going to get much better even if we developed the car, so we concentrated our efforts on next year."

Honda CEO Nick Fry has made positive comments this week about Button's future and the driver is predicting an improved showing next season.

"Next year is going to be different," he said. "I think there will be a lot of teams that are competitive. It should be a good year for F1 and it will definitely be a much better year for me."

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