2009 FIA Formula 1 World Champion Jenson Button has revealed that he almost rejoined his old team Williams Martini Racing last year when it was announced Valtteri Bottas would be heading to Mercedes AMG Petronas Formula 1 Team for 2017.

The current McLaren Honda Formula 1 Team reserve driver was interviewed by news channel CNN for their programme The Circuit and mentioned, “I’ve almost rejoined Williams three or four times! I spoke to Williams about racing this year a couple of times. I spoke to them last year and I spoke to them this year as well, but for me it was time.”

Asked for his thoughts on the current season he remains on the fence and wouldn’t give up any ideas on who he expected to win.

“I think it’s better to not try and guess who’s going to win; It’s great having two manufacturers, two teams fighting at the front and two drivers who have obviously achieved a lot in the sport already. Having teammates racing is fun to watch, but when you have two different teams it’s awesome.”

With Williams celebrating 40 years in Formula 1 this season the legacy of the team is not lost on Button, “Starting my career with Williams was very special, especially with Frank [Williams] and with Patrick [Head] running the team.

“They will always have their place in Formula 1, and the great thing about Williams is, it’s not a manufacturer – it’s a team that goes racing because it’s so passionate about racing.

“They’re a team that will always be here, whereas manufacturers come and go.” he added.

You can watch the full interview with CNN’s Amanda Davies for The Circuit here.