Button feels 'like a kid again' following Formula 1 sabbatical call

The 2009 F1 world champion will stay with McLaren as an ambassador and reserve, with an option to race again in 2018 should the possibility arise.

The move will give Button, who made his debut in 2000, more freedom while keeping a foot in the door.

"This is definitely the right thing, I'm going to be seeing my family more which is something I'm very excited about," he said.

"I feel like a kid again, and suddenly I'm in a great position.

"I don't have to worry about certain things, and I can go and do things I've always dreamed of doing. It's a nice feeling.

"It's always a tough decision to not race in Formula 1 because this has been my life ever since I've been an adult.

"Obviously my fans are going to find it weird, but hopefully they understand where I am now, and there is always the possibility I will be racing in 2018 when this is a winning car."

Button has vowed to "train my arse off" during his time away, and is not worried about taking a year out before potentially returning.

"I really don't think it's an issue," he said.

"I've been through so many different eras of Formula 1 - V10s, V8s, V6s, with different types of downforce.

"I've been through probably more than any type of driver in the sport has been through in his career, so there is definitely no issue of that.

"I will come back as a stronger driver just because I've had the rest.

"You also see things from a different angle when you're out the car and watch the drivers working with the team in a different way.

"So that will definitely help me if I do decide to come back."

BUTTON NO THREAT TO VANDOORNE

Last year's GP2 champion and McLaren reserve Stoffel Vandoorne will step into the race seat vacated by Button alongside Fernando Alonso.

While Button talks about the possibility of being reinvigorated to return in 2018, 24-year-old Vandoorne does not see the 36-year-old as a threat next year.

"I have been with McLaren for a long time, spent a lot of time with the team and it's been great for me to see how Jenson and Fernando have pushed this team forward," said Vandoorne.

"So I don't see [Button] as a threat. Next year we will have an incredible team with a lot of experience.

"It's great to see Jenson stay on. He has been an integral part of McLaren Honda, and his experience will be invaluable to push this team even harder."