Hill: clock is ticking on Button

Twenty-seven year-old Button starts his eighth season in Formula One next week with just one win under his belt, and with his Honda team already looking like they won't have a car to fight for the title.

The Japanese squad plan a major revamp of their RA107 car after admitting the new machine had fallen short on expectations.

Button has been with Honda, previously BAR, since the 2003 season, with a third place in 2004 as his best result in a championship.

Former world champion Hill believes Button may have to reconsider his future if Honda do not give him a car to fight for the title.

"I think Jenson this year is going to have to think long and hard about what he does next. I don't know what his contract is with Honda, but I think the clock is ticking," Hill told reporters on Tuesday.

"He certainly hasn't missed the boat, he certainly isn't too old. He's got the talent and the determination, and he has got experience. But every year that goes by without being a regular title contender his stock is going down.

"He does from a career point of view need to see where he goes next. He can't wait around for Honda to produce the magic."

Hill believes Button will not be the top British driver this season, with Lewis Hamilton's McLaren already looking stronger.

Hamilton, the GP2 champion, makes his debut this season alongside world champion Fernando Alonso.

"Honda as a team have yet to establish themselves in the same way as, say, Renault," Hill added. "It's not fair to compare them to McLaren because they have been around a lot longer. I think the signs are good for McLaren, by the way testing has been going.

"I would say Lewis is in the stronger position already than Jenson. Testing has shown Honda has got more work to do ­ again. It's incredibly tough to be a title contender in F1. That last little bit is everything."