LONDON (THE GUARDIAN) - Jenson Button is expected to announce his retirement after 16 seasons in Formula One before this weekend's Japanese Grand Prix in Suzuka.
The 35-year-old, who agreed a new deal with McLaren at the start of the season has been in negotiations over extending his contract with the struggling team, who have managed just 17 points this season, but is reportedly ready to call time on his career.
To date Button, the 2009 world champion, has achieved 15 race victories from his 278 starts, which makes him the third most experienced driver in Formula One history.
Button is expected to choose this weekend to make his announcement due to his fondess for the Japanese Grand Prix and the country - his wife, Jessica, is Japanese and he is popular among the local supporters.
