Button: Cost cuts won't affect racing

The FIA confirmed a major overhaul of the technical and sporting regulations for 2009 last week in a bid to reduce teams' budgets and prevent more outfits like Honda Racing walking away from the sport.

And although some of the rules, especially the testing ban, will change the scope for teams to develop their cars throughout the year, Button believes that it will ultimately not change the racing that much.

"Every driver will say it's a pity to be banning testing, but really they're all quite excited because it means we get to have a bit of a life," said Button, who is still awaiting news about his F1 future with Honda. "It will save a lot of money and I really don't think it will make a big difference."

Button thinks the biggest impact on the racing will be provided by the return of slick tyres and new aerodynamic regulations, which have resulted in some striking looking wings appearing in early testing.

"Initially to look at the cars, they might not be attractive, but to drive I have a better feeling, especially with the slick tyres," he said. "You can run closer to another car and I think it will make the racing better. I think it's positive."