Hamilton pleased by Button's arrival

Hamilton had a turbulent relationship with the last world champion he partnered, Fernando Alonso in 2007, but is looking forward to working with his compatriot in 2010.

"Although we'll be pushing each other hard, I'm sure we'll very quickly establish a great working relationship," said Hamilton.

"He's an exceptional driver: very controlled and very smooth, and he has a real depth of knowledge and experience. I think we'll complement each other very well, and our collaboration will make the team stronger as a result.

"I'm sure Jenson has already started to appreciate our team's unique culture and the special family atmosphere that makes it such an incredible place to live and work. We really are like one big family - and I'm sure Jenson will feel the warmth of that welcome from day one."

Hamilton is also looking forward to forming an all-British driver line-up. It will be the first time that two British world champions have been fielded by the same team since Lotus ran Jim Clark and Graham Hill at the start of 1968.

He believes that it will make the British Grand Prix - which is expected to be held at Silverstone next year even though a deal has yet to be completed - a celebration of the country's success in F1.

"I'm delighted to be racing alongside a fellow British world champion," said Hamilton. "Obviously, as a British driver, I'm also thrilled that we'll be flying the flag for the United Kingdom, and I think today's announcement is fantastic news for all British sports fans.

"I hope they'll be giving us their full support when the season kicks off next March. I'm already looking forward to Silverstone - it'll be massive!"

Hamilton is confident that he and Button will start the 2010 season with a competitive car and is impressed by the progress of the team's work on the McLaren MP4-25.

"Looking ahead, I think the results from the second half of 2009 speak for themselves, and I'm convinced we can carry that momentum through the winter and into the new season," said Hamilton.

"I've been closely following the development of our 2010 challenger, the MP4-25, and I think it's going to be a state-of-the-art car that will enable both of us to consistently fight for victories."