Jenson Button happy with new regulations and engines in 2014

New Delhi: McLaren driver Jenson Button on Thursday exuded confidence that his team will return strongly in 2014 when the new Formula One regulations come into effect.

McLaren are without a win or even a podium finish this year and are heading towards finishing their first season in 33 years since 1980 without a podium.

"We should be very happy about the rule changes in 2014. There are some massive changes in aerodynamics, down force, power nit and I think our team is capable of doing well. Every effort is now being focussed on the 2014 car. The present car will have no modifications. We will try to get the best out of this car," said Button.

"With the new technical regulations, more teams will have a chance to win the championship. Red Bull's Sebastian Vettel has been dominating for the last few races but apart from it, we have also seen many interesting fights which means F1 is still interesting," said the 2009 world champion.

McLaren are in fifth place in the constructors' championship, 181 points behind Lotus in fourth. In drivers' standings, the British driver is placed at ninth position with 60 points, a good 37 clear of his teammate Sergio Perez (13th spot).

In 2014, the championship will see the introduction of a revised engine formula, in which the 2.4 litre V8 engine configuration?previously used between 2006 and 2013, will be replaced with a new formula specifying a 1.6 litre turbo charged V6 engine that incorporates an energy recovery system into its build.

Button was honest in his admission about the difficulties McLaren have faced this season due to uncompetitive cars.

"It's probably that our car is far behind the top teams. We are trying very hard. Obviously it's frustrating when you get up from the car and see that you are a minute slower from the leader," he said.

Asked about Indian batting legend Sachin Tendulkar's impending retirement, Button said, "I know cricket is big in India but I don't follow it much as I have a packed schedule. It's hard for me to concentrate on other things."