Button: Nobody knows who will be quickest

Button

Jenson Button says it is almost impossible to predict who will be the pace-setters during next weekend's Australian Grand Prix, with the McLaren driver describing 'an extremely hard-to-read' trio of tests at Jerez and Barcelona.

The Briton, who has admitted to inconsistent handling with his new car, believes that higher than usual tire degradation mixed with the unknown testing fuel loads has made predicting the pecking order even more of a challenge this year.

"This year, I don’t think any team really knows or understands the competitive order," said Button. "It’s been an extremely hard-to-read winter: varying fuel-loads and levels of tire degradation mean that it’s hard to accurately predict who’ll arrive in Australia with the best-sorted car. But that’s part of the game."

Button, who has won three Grands Prix on the streets of Melbourne, is hoping that his previous success at the Albert Park venue will help his cause this year.

"The start of a new season is always exciting as it’s the culmination of months of hard work and planning," he added. "I’ve had some great experiences in Melbourne, having won the race three times, and I love the place. There isn’t a better location in the world to be kicking off what will no doubt be a fiercely competitive world championship."