McLaren driver Jenson Button announces retirement from Formula 1

McLaren driver Jenson Button has announced his retirement from Formula 1.

The 36-year-old has confirmed that Sunday's season-ending grand prix in Abu Dhabi will be the final race of his career.

Earlier in the campaign, Button signed a two-year deal with McLaren to become an ambassador for the team, which included an option to return as a driver in 2018.

However, the Brit, who won the championship in 2009 while driving for Brawn, has decided to call it quits.

In Thursday's pre-race press conference, Button told reporters: "I go into this weekend thinking it's my last race. At this moment in time I don't want to be racing in F1 beyond this race.

"I've raced with two of the teams I dreamed about racing with when I was a kid. Williams and McLaren. Loads of amazing memories."

Button, who joined McLaren in 2010, has collected just 21 points this season.