By Jamie White – Head of Communications

 

McLaren-Honda has announced that Jenson Button will join Fernando Alonso as the team’s drivers for the 2015 Formula 1 season.

 

Kevin Magnussen will also remain an important part of the team, as test and reserve driver.

 

All three men will play crucial roles in re-establishing the ascendancy of one of global sport’s most iconic unions.

 

McLaren and Honda previously formed one of the most dominant partnerships in motorsport winning eight world championships and 44 grand prix races, with 53 pole positions in the 1980s and 90s.

 

There had been intense speculation about Button’s future in the sport in recent weeks, but the Brit admitted he is ready and raring to go for the new season.

 

Button said: “I am extremely excited to be embarking on my 16th year in Formula 1 and my sixth season for McLaren.

 

“Being a part of new-look McLaren-Honda is a wonderful opportunity for all of us, and I am very pleased to have been invited to do my bit. In fact, I am absolutely raring to go.

 

“Looking forward, I know the Honda guys well, having driven Formula 1 cars powered by their engines from 2003 to 2008. I have a huge amount of respect and admiration for them, and promise to give 100% to make their partnership with McLaren a success.

 

“I am very much looking forward to having a driver as fast and as experienced as Fernando as my team-mate. I am sure we will work extremely well together.”

 

Alonso said: “I am joining this project with enormous enthusiasm and determination, knowing that it may require some time to achieve the results we are aiming for, which is no problem for me.

 

“I have had in-depth discussions with all the senior people at both McLaren and Honda, I have viewed their fantastic facilities in both the UK and Japan, and it is clear to me that, together, McLaren and Honda are in the process of beginning what is sure to be a long and successful partnership.”