Button Delighted after 'Best Ever Race'

Briton Jenson Button claimed his performance in the San Marino Grand Prix was the best of his Formula One career - despite the fact that he finished fifth.

Renault driver Button continued his impressive run of points-scoring finishes with another solid display at Imola and the 22-year-old described it as the best of his career.

"There is no comparison to be made (on last year)," Button told ITV after the race. "For me this was my best race in my Formula One career. We were quick enough and we finish fifth.

"I think it is (my best race). We were on the pace and I pushed every lap and it worked. We were able to get past DC on merit in the pit-stops."

Button admitted that he had struggled to cope with the demanding kerbs at Imola on his previous two visits and insisted the circuit does not suit his driving style.

"The last two years have been disappointing on this circuit for me. It is the kerbs - I have a smooth driving style but here you have got to throw the car over the kerbs," he added.

Despite still searching for his maiden podium in Formula One, Button admitted that he is targeting the mantle as top British driver with a season-long battle with McLaren's David Coulthard set to run.

"It is great but my target is to be the top driver in the world," he said when asked about being the top British driver. "But hopefully I can stay as the top Brit.

"Hopefully at the next race but it will be difficult. Teams are so reliable at the moment and maybe I will have to wait until close to the end of the season when we are closer to the front teams."