Jenson Button set to miss opening two rounds of 2019 WEC

British Formula 1 legend Jenson Button will miss the opening two rounds of the 2019 World Endurance Championship to give him the best chance of retaining his Super GT title.

Button won't be present for the Sebring and Spa rounds because of clashes with Super GT events in Japan. Button, 38, will return to the WEC in time for Le Mans in June.

'It was always clear that it wasn't going to be easy to combine my participation in the seasons of FIA WEC and Super GT," the 2009 World Champion said.

"At the same time, to race for SMP Racing - even if I would have to miss certain rounds - is a great opportunity that I couldn't pass up. The Shanghai podium is an unbelievable achievement and progress for our team, and we'll keep trying and working further to secure ever greater results," Button said in an interview on F1i.

The former McLaren driver will bulk up his schedule in 2019 as he follows the F1 circus. He has signed up to be part of Sky Sports F1's commentary team.