Jenson Button has offered a timely reminder of the exact nature of Formula One at a time when it is mired in crisis and civil war.

The political battle between the FIA and Ferrari that threatens to head to the civil courts is currently overshadowing the sport, and in particular the build-up to this weekend's Monaco Grand Prix.

It has taken such a stranglehold that Thursday's two practice sessions around the Principality were relegated to a sideshow.

There will be no let up when F1 enjoys its traditional day off on a Friday of Monaco Grand Prix week as the Formula One Teams' Association are due to meet, supposedly on Flavio Briatore's yacht moored in the Monte Carlo harbour.

So it is refreshing of Button to recall the racing on the track so far this season has been pretty spectacular, especially so from his perspective after winning four of five grands prix to lead the way by 14 points.

When asked for his thoughts as to the future of F1, and whether the current in-fighting sent out a good message to the fans, Button was eager to ram home the sport's positive points.

"Well, I think the racing is a good message for the fans, and when they turn on their TVs on Saturdays and Sundays I think they get a great show," replied Button.

"This year is very different; if you're a Ferrari or a McLaren fan, obviously this year is a more difficult season for you, but it's the way Formula One goes.

"We've all been there before in a car that is not so competitive, but you work at it and you improve that car and get it back to the front.

"As a sport, this year Formula One has been very exciting. You've new faces at the front - well, not new faces because they've always been in Formula One.

"But you've newer teams that have done a great job of building a very competitive car that's better than the others, so they are at the front.

"When you see the podiums and press conferences there is a really good energy there, and I think that is really good for the sport."

Button finished the day fourth quickest overall behind Williams' Nico Rosberg, with the pressure on heading into what is one of his two home grands prix.

Much of that pressure the 29-year-old is putting on himself as he revealed his winning start to the year has led to him becoming more immersed in the sport this year than at any time in his career.

But there is also history to live up to because on all 13 occasions when a driver has won four of the first five grands prix, he has gone on to win the world title.

"It sounds great to me," smiled Button.

"But the reality of it is we don't know what it going to happen for the other 12 races. It's a great stat and hopefully it continues.

"But I'm not going to let it get to me. Every race I finish, and obviously after winning the last couple of races, it's a great feeling.

"But as soon as it is over and you have enjoyed the moment, you are already thinking about the next one.

"So in a weird way it is quite stressful, but exciting stressful."