Jenson Button thrilled by Honda's return to F1 with McLaren

The McLaren driver raced for the works Honda team from 2006-2008, and with the Japanese manufacturer's engines for three seasons before that.

Button believes that the revival of the McLaren-Honda partnership is also positive for the sport.

"McLaren Honda: I know how much passion, success and pride are encapsulated within just those two words," said Button.

"That's why I'm so thrilled and excited about what is not only a fantastic opportunity for the team but also a great development for Formula 1 fans and the sport as a whole.

"I grew up watching McLaren-Honda Formula 1 cars racing and winning around the world - they wrote their own glorious chapter of F1 history.

"Even now, picturing those unmistakable red-and-white cars evokes vivid memories of some of the most dramatic and exciting motor-racing the world has ever seen."

Button, who claimed Honda's first win as a full works operation for 39 years in the 2006 Hungarian Grand Prix, paid tribute to Honda's passion for motorsport.

He believes that the Japanese manufacturer is ideally suited to the challenge of the new 1.6-litre turbocharged V6 engines.

"I've already enjoyed a long and successful working relationship with Honda," he said.

"I know exactly how passionate Honda is a about motorsport, and Formula 1 in particular.

"The challenge set by Formula 1's new technical regulations provides Honda with the perfect opportunity to return to the pinnacle of motorsport."