McLaren, Button play down 2016 split rumours

Jun.5 (GMM) McLaren has played down reports it is already looking to replace Jenson Button for 2016.

Britain's Sun newspaper predicted the Honda-powered team could "boot" the 2009 world champion despite him having a two-year contract in his pocket.

The Sky broadcaster quoted a McLaren insider as dismissing the speculation as "tittle-tattle".

And just last week, McLaren supremo Ron Dennis had suggested there was no room at Woking for 2016, even though reserve Kevin Magnussen is champing at the bit.

"I have two world champions who are among the very best," he was quoted by the Danish newspaper Ekstra Bladet.

"Perhaps that means I have to help him (Magnussen) into another team for another learning year," said Dennis.

And when asked about rumours Magnussen could be drafted back into the McLaren lineup for 2016 at his expense, Button answered: "What happens, happens.

"At the end of last year my future was in limbo for months, but now here I am sitting with you," the 35-year-old was quoted in Canada by Speed Week.