06/03/2014
NEWS STORY
Back in charge at McLaren, Ron Dennis has been singing the praises of his two drivers, likening Jenson Button to the legendary Ayrton Senna.
Before you start hitting Twitter accusing the Ronster of losing the plot however, it should be pointed out that he was comparing the two as human beings rather than suggesting that the popular 2009 world champion is up there with the true greats.
"In many ways there are similarities between Ayrton and Jenson," Dennis told reporters at the MTC just a week ahead of the 2014 season opener. "He is an incredibly good human being. He has principles and values. And the way that he conducts his life and his relationship with this team is right up there with some of the other great drivers who have been with us."
While many regard Button as Martin Whitmarsh's protege, certainly as far as McLaren is concerned, Dennis believes the English driver, now the elder statesman of F1, is still a contender for further honours.
"Intelligence is going to become an absolute pre-requisite to cope with the complications drivers have in the car, the fuel management and tyre management, it is going to require brainpower and dedication," he said. "And then he's quick. He is capable of winning races and world championships. I'm extremely optimistic and I think he will be an incredible mentor to Kevin."
Turning his attention to teammate Kevin Magnussen, son of Jan Magnussen who made his F1 debut with McLaren before heading to Stewart, Dennis admitted that initially he wasn't sure of the Danish youngster.
"I had reservations," he said. "I'm not a great believer in sons of drivers. Jan was a little bit untidy. He quite did my head in sometimes.
"He will have an exceptional career, I'm sure of that," he continued, referring to Kevin. "He's got a steely determination. I don't think he's going to give when he gets a few knocks. He's certainly going to keep Jenson honest, that's for sure."
Chris Balfe