Jenson Button
Jenson Button is a British former professional racing driver best known for winning the 2009 Formula One World Drivers' Championship with the Brawn GP team.[1] Born on 19 January 1980 in Frome, Somerset, England, Button began his motorsport career in karting at the age of eight, quickly achieving success by winning all 34 races in the British Cadet category at age 11.[1] He progressed through junior formulas, becoming the youngest champion of the European Formula Super A series in 1997 at age 17 and securing the British Formula Ford championship in 1998.[1] Button made his Formula One debut in 2000 with the Williams team at the remarkably young age of 20, becoming the youngest driver to score points in F1 history at the time during his second race in Brazil.[1] Over his 18-season F1 career, spanning 306 starts, he competed for several teams including Benetton-Renault (2001–2002), BAR-Honda (2003–2005), Honda (2006–2008), Brawn GP (2009), and McLaren (2010–2016 and 2017), amassing 15 race victories, 50 podium finishes, eight pole positions, and 1,235 championship points.[1] His maiden F1 win came at the 2006 Hungarian Grand Prix with Honda, followed by a dominant 2009 season where he clinched the drivers' title and helped Brawn secure the constructors' championship in their debut year.[1] Notable highlights include his first victory for McLaren at the 2010 Australian Grand Prix and a dramatic wet-weather triumph from 21st on the grid at the 2011 Canadian Grand Prix, F1's longest race at the time.[1] After stepping back from a full-time F1 seat following the 2016 season—though he made a one-off appearance at the 2017 Monaco Grand Prix—Button pursued diverse racing endeavors, including the Japanese Super GT series in 2018 with Honda and a return to endurance racing.[1] In 2024, he joined the FIA World Endurance Championship full-time with Jota Sport, competing in events like the 24 Hours of Le Mans where he finished ninth in the Hypercar class.[2] Entering his second WEC season in 2025, Button expressed ambitions to secure a race win, including at Le Mans, before announcing in October 2025 that the 8 Hours of Bahrain on November 8 would be his final professional race, which it was, retiring from competitive driving at age 45 to spend more time with his family.[3][4][5] Beyond racing, Button has established himself as a television pundit, providing expert analysis for Sky Sports F1 coverage since 2018 and continuing in that role through the 2025 season.[6]Early life
Childhood and family background
Jenson Button was born on 19 January 1980 in Frome, Somerset, southwest England.[1][7] His father, John Button, was a successful rallycross driver in the 1970s and early 1980s, as well as an advanced driving instructor, whose passion for motorsport profoundly influenced Jenson from an early age.[1][8] John coached his son and supported his early racing endeavors through a kart engine preparation business.[1] Button's mother, Simone Button (née Lyons), played a key supportive role in the family, remaining close to Jenson following their parents' separation when he was seven.[1][9] The Button family was immersed in motorsport culture, with Jenson showing a fascination for racing from infancy—he was reportedly only still when watching races on television—and the household frequently attending rallycross events where John competed.[1] Jenson was named after Erling Jensen, a Danish rallycross driver and friend of his father, further underscoring the early motorsport ties.[1] Button grew up with three older sisters, Natasha, Samantha, and Tanya, after his parents' divorce, when he and his siblings were raised by their mother in Frome.[1] This family environment, centered around his father's racing career and the communal excitement of motorsport outings, laid the foundation for Jenson's lifelong passion for the sport.[10]Education and early interests
Jenson Button attended local schools in Frome, Somerset, including Vallis First School, Selwood Middle School, and Frome Community College, where he attended until age 15 before leaving to pursue racing full-time, though he later obtained one GCSE qualification.[11][12] His family's motorsport heritage, with his father John being a former rallycross driver, influenced his early passion for racing.[13] At 15, Button left school to focus on racing full-time, a decision supported by his family and school, which allowed him time off for competitions during his teenage years.[14][11] This shift enabled him to relocate to Italy at age 15 to immerse himself in the European karting scene, where he began developing practical skills in vehicle mechanics through hands-on experience and self-taught communication with Italian mechanics despite language barriers.[13] During his formative years, Button's dedication to racing limited his academic pursuits, resulting in just one GCSE qualification upon leaving school.[12] As a promising junior talent, he gained initial media attention in British motorsport circles for his rapid progression and potential, highlighted by early successes that drew interest from teams and scouts.[1]Early racing career
Karting achievements
Jenson Button began karting at the age of eight in 1988, receiving his first kart as a gift from his father, who provided crucial early support in exposing him to the sport.[15] He quickly progressed to cadet classes, securing his debut major victory in the 1989 British Super Prix.[16] By 1990, Button claimed the British Cadet Championship, demonstrating rapid improvement in the 8-12 age group.[16] His dominance peaked in 1991, when he won the British Cadet Championship by sweeping all six rounds and all 34 races overall, alongside victory in the British Open Championship.[15][16] In 1992, he transitioned to the Junior TKM class (11-16 year olds) and won the British Championship, repeating his British Open success.[16] The following year, 1993, saw him retain the British Open Championship title.[16] Button's international profile grew in 1994 within the ICA Junior category, where he finished fourth in the RAC British Junior Championship but excelled abroad, winning races in the Junior Intercontinental A European Championship and securing double victories in the Junior Intercontinental A Italian Winter Championship while driving for the Italian Birel team.[16] He continued his strong form in 1995, capturing the Senior ICA Italian Championship and achieving runner-up position in the Formula A World Championship in France, becoming the youngest ever to reach that podium spot.[16] In 1996, Button competed at the senior level, placing fifth in the European Formula A Championship, third in the American Championship at Charlotte, and third in the World Cup at Suzuka.[16] In 1997, at age 17, he won the European Formula Super A Championship, becoming the youngest champion in its history.[1] These results highlighted his progression from national cadet successes to competitive international senior events by age 17.Junior single-seater progression
Button transitioned from karting to single-seater racing in 1998 at the age of 18, entering the British Formula Ford Championship with Haywood Racing in a Mygale SJ98 car.[17] He dominated the season, securing the title with nine victories out of the 21 races, showcasing exceptional adaptability and speed against established rivals like Dan Wheldon.[18] This triumph not only marked his rookie year success but also included a standout win at the Formula Ford Festival at Brands Hatch, where he again outperformed Wheldon to claim the prestigious non-championship event.[18] His performances earned him the McLaren Autosport BRDC Young Driver of the Year Award, providing crucial funding and exposure for further progression.[15] In 1999, Button advanced to the British Formula 3 Championship with the Promatecme team, driving a Dallara F399 with a Renault engine as part of their junior program.[19] Despite being a newcomer to the series, he finished third overall with 168 points, achieving three race wins amid stiff competition from champion Marc Hynes and runner-up Luciano Burti.[19][15] Button's consistency and podium finishes highlighted his growth, though he noted the series' intensity tested his raw talent against more experienced drivers.[20] These results opened doors to Formula One testing opportunities in late 1999. As part of his young driver award, Button tested a McLaren MP4/14 at Silverstone in November, impressing with his feedback and pace.[15] He also conducted sessions with Prost Grand Prix in a 1999-spec car at Barcelona, further demonstrating his potential. The pivotal moment came with Williams, where he participated in a shoot-out test at Barcelona against other prospects, including Bruno Junqueira; his strong lap times and maturity convinced team principal Frank Williams to sign him for the 2000 season.[21] This rapid ascent from Formula Ford to an F1 seat underscored Button's prodigious talent and the strategic team switches that accelerated his career trajectory.[20]Formula One career
Williams debut (2000)
Jenson Button joined the Williams team for the 2000 Formula One season as their second driver alongside Ralf Schumacher, becoming the youngest British driver to start a Grand Prix at the age of 20 years, 2 months, and 7 days during his debut at the Australian Grand Prix.[15] This opportunity came after Button impressed in testing, securing the seat over more experienced candidates through a shootout against Bruno Junqueira.[22] Over the course of the 17-race season, Button demonstrated early promise in the competitive Williams-BMW FW22, which helped the team secure third place in the Constructors' Championship. Button accumulated 12 points to finish eighth in the Drivers' Championship, marking him as the youngest points scorer in F1 history at that time.[23] His standout performance was a fourth-place finish at the German Grand Prix in Hockenheim, where he started 16th on the grid but capitalized on incidents and strategy to charge through the field, earning three points despite a qualifying spin into the barriers.[24] Other notable results included fifth in Austria and sixth in races such as Brazil, San Marino, Hungary, Belgium, and Japan, showcasing his race pace and consistency as a rookie.[25] However, he was overshadowed by teammate Ralf Schumacher, who scored 24 points to finish fifth overall, highlighting Button's adaptation challenges against a more seasoned driver in a car capable of frequent top-six finishes.[23] The season was not without hurdles, as Button encountered several collisions and reliability setbacks that hampered his progress.[26] Notable incidents included a first-lap crash at the Monaco Grand Prix hairpin, where he collided amid a multi-car pile-up, and a restart mishap at the Italian Grand Prix in Monza, where confusion over a waved green flag led him to swerve onto the grass and slam into barriers while avoiding Jacques Villeneuve.[27] Reliability issues with the FW22 also played a role, such as a rear suspension failure on the final lap of the Malaysian Grand Prix that dropped him from a potential podium to fourth, and engine or mechanical problems contributing to eight retirements.[28] At the season's end, contract disputes emerged due to Button's five-year agreement with Williams, which included options for future years; despite his solid debut, the team loaned him to Benetton for the 2001 and 2002 seasons while retaining the right to recall him in 2003 and 2004, with Williams covering part of his salary during the loan.[29] This arrangement allowed Button to gain further experience amid ongoing negotiations over his long-term future.[28]Benetton and Renault (2001–2002)
Following his rookie season with Williams, where limited opportunities hindered his development, Jenson Button moved to Benetton for 2001, seeking a more stable environment to build experience. The team, based in Enstone, paired him with experienced Italian driver Giancarlo Fisichella, who was entering his fourth year with the outfit.[30] However, the Benetton B201 chassis, powered by a new narrow-angle Renault V10 engine, suffered from reliability issues and a lack of power compared to rivals, restricting the team to occasional points-scoring finishes.[31] Button's season highlight came at the German Grand Prix, where he secured fifth place and 2 points after a strategic pit stop amid rain-affected conditions.[32] Overall, he completed all 17 races but retired due to mechanical failures in eight, ending the year 17th in the Drivers' Championship with just 2 points, while Fisichella scored 8.[30] The 2002 season marked a significant transition as Benetton was fully acquired by Renault and rebranded as the Renault F1 Team, with the R202 chassis continuing to use the Renault V10 engine but benefiting from minor regulatory tweaks, including enhanced safety features like larger rear lights and mirrors, though no major aerodynamic or power unit changes were introduced.[33] Button retained his seat alongside new teammate Jarno Trulli, a qualifying specialist from Jordan, as the team aimed to climb the midfield.[34] The car showed improved reliability and pace early on, allowing Button to outperform Trulli consistently; he outqualified his teammate 12-5 and scored in seven races.[35] Key results included fourth places at the Malaysian and Brazilian Grands Prix, earning 3 points each, which demonstrated his growing adaptability to varying track conditions and tire management.[36][37] Despite these advances, the Renault remained uncompetitive against the top teams, hampered by chassis limitations in high-speed corners, and Button finished seventh in the standings with 14 points to Trulli's 9.[34] Button's departure from Renault at the end of 2002 stemmed from internal team decisions favoring youth and potential over his solid but unspectacular results. Despite outperforming Trulli and showing promise, Renault opted to promote test driver Fernando Alonso to the full-time seat for 2003, viewing the Spaniard as a long-term asset amid the team's rebuilding phase.[38] This move, confirmed in July 2002, led to Button securing a high-profile transfer to BAR-Honda, but it highlighted the political dynamics at Enstone, where Flavio Briatore prioritized emerging talent to accelerate the squad's competitiveness.[39]BAR and Honda (2003–2008)
Button joined British American Racing (BAR) for the 2003 season, partnering Jacques Villeneuve for the first six races before Takuma Sato took over the second seat.[40] The BAR 005 car showed promise in qualifying but suffered from reliability issues, limiting Button to 17 points across the 16-race season and securing ninth place in the Drivers' Championship. Despite no podiums, Button demonstrated consistency with six top-six finishes, including a career-best fourth place at the Hungaroring.[41] In 2004, with Sato as teammate, BAR's BAR 006 chassis marked a significant improvement, powered by Honda engines that propelled the team to second in the Constructors' Championship. Button achieved his breakthrough year, scoring 85 points for third in the Drivers' standings—his best result to date—and claiming 10 podiums, including third places in Malaysia, Bahrain, Imola, Europe, Canada, and the United States. He also secured his maiden pole position at San Marino, highlighting his growing speed on the BAR-Honda package. The 2005 season began strongly for Button and BAR, but was overshadowed by a major controversy. After finishing third at the San Marino Grand Prix, Button and Sato were disqualified when their cars were found to be under the 605 kg minimum weight limit due to a hidden fuel tank system, leading to the team being banned from the Monaco and Spanish Grands Prix.[42] The scandal, described as "highly regrettable negligence" by the FIA, stripped BAR of early points and damaged their campaign.[42] The ban prevented BAR from participating in the Monaco and Spanish Grands Prix. Sato returned for the Canadian Grand Prix. Despite the setbacks, Button scored 37 points for ninth in the championship, with podiums in Germany and Turkey, and a pole in Canada.[40] BAR rebranded as Honda for 2006, with Rubens Barrichello joining as Button's experienced teammate.[40] The RA106 car delivered Button's first Grand Prix victory at the Hungarian Grand Prix after 113 starts, plus two more podiums in Malaysia and the United States, for a total of 56 points and sixth place overall. However, reliability woes emerged, with Button retiring from eight races due to mechanical failures.[41] Honda's performance declined sharply in 2007 and 2008 amid ongoing engine development challenges and aerodynamic inefficiencies. Button, still paired with Barrichello, managed only six points in 2007 (15th in the championship) and three in 2008 (18th), both seasons marred by frequent retirements—10 in 2007 and 12 in 2008—and no podiums. The team's struggles reflected broader issues with the RA107 and RA108 chassis, culminating in Honda's withdrawal from Formula One at the end of 2008. Despite the frustrations, Button's smooth driving style and feedback contributed to incremental improvements in car setup during this inconsistent period.[43]Brawn GP title win (2009)
At the end of the 2008 season, Honda abruptly withdrew from Formula One as a constructor due to the global financial crisis, putting the future of its Brackley-based team in jeopardy and nearly forcing its closure.[44] Ross Brawn, who had served as team principal, orchestrated a last-minute management buyout for a nominal £1 fee, rebranding the outfit as Brawn GP and securing Mercedes-Benz as the engine supplier for 2009; this rescue came just weeks before the season opener, allowing the team to field an evolved version of the previous year's Honda RA108 chassis.[45] A key factor in the team's unexpected competitiveness was the BGP 001's double diffuser, a innovative design conceived by Honda aerodynamicists that exploited a loophole in the new regulations (Article 3.12.7), channeling exhaust gases to create additional downforce without violating rules on the single-piece diffuser requirement; this gave Brawn a substantial aerodynamic edge over rivals who initially protested its legality before the FIA ruled it permissible.[44][46] Button's campaign began dominantly, as he secured victories in six of the first seven races: Australia, Malaysia, Bahrain, Spain, Monaco, and Turkey, amassing a commanding lead in the standings.[47] In the rain-affected Malaysian Grand Prix, he navigated changing conditions to hold off Sebastian Vettel for the win, while his Monaco triumph highlighted precise qualifying and race control on the street circuit.[47] The Turkish Grand Prix exemplified Button's on-track mastery, where he capitalized on Vettel's early error to overtake on the first lap and pulled away to victory by over 18 seconds, extending his championship advantage to 26 points.[47][48] These results propelled him to 95 points by season's end, clinching the Drivers' Championship—his first and only—in the penultimate race at the Brazilian Grand Prix, where a fifth-place finish ensured the title despite a late-season form dip as rivals caught up to Brawn's early advantage.[49] Throughout the year, Button engaged in a tense intra-team rivalry with teammate Rubens Barrichello, a veteran Brazilian who had returned to his former squad and won twice (Monaco and Italy), scoring 77 points to finish third overall; while Brawn enforced no formal team orders, Button's superior early-season consistency and mental preparation—honed through rigorous fitness and psychological routines—proved decisive in outpacing Barrichello by 18 points.[50][51] The duo's combined efforts delivered Brawn GP its maiden Constructors' Championship with 172 points, capping a remarkable debut year that contrasted sharply with the struggles of Button's prior tenure under the BAR-Honda banner.McLaren tenure (2010–2017)
Following his 2009 World Drivers' Championship victory with Brawn GP, Jenson Button joined McLaren for the 2010 season as a reigning champion, partnering Lewis Hamilton in an all-British lineup. The MP4-25 car initially suffered from reliability and balance issues, particularly in pre-season testing, but Button adapted quickly, securing four victories in Australia, China, Hungary, and Turkey. These wins, combined with seven podiums, propelled him to fifth in the Drivers' Championship with 214 points, though the team struggled against Red Bull's dominance. Button's racecraft shone in challenging conditions, such as the wet Australian Grand Prix where he made a bold three-stop strategy call to claim victory.[52][15] The 2010–2012 period featured intense intra-team rivalry with Hamilton, who outqualified Button 16–5 but was edged in race head-to-heads (12–9). Button described Hamilton as a "weird" teammate due to his focused, introverted approach, contrasting with Button's more relaxed style, yet praised his raw speed. In 2011, Button mounted a title challenge, finishing second overall with 270 points from three wins—Canada (a rain-soaked epic with five safety cars), Hungary, and Japan—alongside eight podiums. However, McLaren's strategic errors, such as an overly aggressive two-stop in Spain, cost him potential points. The following year, 2012, brought three more wins (Australia, Belgium, and Brazil) and consistent podiums (seven total), but Button ended fifth with 188 points, again overshadowed by Sebastian Vettel's Red Bull supremacy; he publicly criticized a misguided three-stop strategy at the Hungarian Grand Prix that dropped him from contention.[53][54][55] By 2013, with new teammate Sergio Pérez, McLaren's form dipped amid development woes, yielding Button's sole win of the year at Hungary and just two podiums, for ninth place with 73 points. The hybrid era exacerbated challenges in 2014, as the MP4-29 lagged in straight-line speed; Button managed no wins but six podiums, finishing eighth with 126 points, ahead of teammate Magnussen (55 points). In 2015, partnering Fernando Alonso, the switch to Honda power units brought severe reliability and power deficits; Button outscored his more aggressive teammate 16–11 points despite no podiums, finishing 16th overall, and later called Alonso a tougher challenge due to his consistency and feedback. McLaren's strategies were again scrutinized, with Button noting poor tire management in several races.[56][57][58] The 2016 season saw further decline with the underpowered Honda unit, as Button scored 21 points from sporadic results like ninth in the US Grand Prix, ending 15th in the standings behind teammate Alonso, who scored 54 points. Team dynamics shifted toward development focus, with Button contributing to car setup despite frustrations over strategy calls in races like Singapore. In January 2017, Button announced his retirement from full-time driving at season's end, transitioning to a reserve role; he made a one-off appearance at Monaco, qualifying ninth and finishing there for no points, before stepping away permanently after the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix. His eight-year McLaren stint yielded 11 wins, 27 podiums, and 1,077 points, marked by adaptability amid evolving regulations and internal pressures.[59][60][15]Williams advisory role (2021)
In January 2021, Jenson Button returned to Williams Racing, the team with which he made his Formula One debut in 2000, in the role of senior advisor on a multi-year agreement.[61] The appointment aimed to leverage Button's over 30 years of motorsport experience to offer strategic guidance to the team and contribute to overall development at the Grove headquarters.[61] A key aspect of Button's responsibilities was mentoring the team's drivers, particularly focusing on the development of George Russell and Nicholas Latifi to enhance their performance and integration within the squad.[61] He provided insights on race strategy, driver coaching, and team dynamics, drawing from his 2009 world championship success and subsequent career.[62] Williams team principal Jost Capito highlighted Button's value in bridging experience gaps, noting his contributions helped foster a more cohesive environment during the season.[62] Button's involvement in 2021 was constrained by his concurrent commitments, including his role as a Sky Sports F1 pundit and participation in other motorsport series, resulting in limited on-track presence and primarily advisory support from afar.[63] This setup allowed for targeted input without full-time immersion, marking his first foray into a non-driving F1 advisory capacity following his retirement from competitive driving at McLaren in 2017.[64]Post-Formula One racing
Super GT participation (2016–2022)
Jenson Button made his debut in Japan's Super GT series in the GT500 class during the 2017 Suzuka 1000km round, driving a Honda NSX-GT for Team Mugen as part of his role as McLaren's reserve driver in Formula One.[65][66] Starting from ninth on the grid, he finished 12th after a challenging race marked by an unsafe release penalty and a collision.[67] In 2018, Button committed to a full season with the Raybrig NSX-GT entry of Team Kunimitsu, partnering Japanese driver Naoki Yamamoto in the Honda NSX-GT.[68] The duo achieved four podium finishes, including a victory at Sportsland Sugo where Button started from pole and led the race to a one-two finish for Honda, securing the GT500 drivers' championship in the season finale at Twin Ring Motegi with a third-place result.[69][70] This triumph marked Button as the first Formula One world champion to win the Super GT title and the first rookie to do so in the highly competitive GT500 category.[68][71] Button returned for a full 2019 campaign with Team Kunimitsu and Yamamoto, though the season proved more challenging with reliability issues and tougher competition.[72] The pair scored two podiums—at Fuji Speedway in round two and the second Fuji round—finishing eighth in the GT500 standings with 37 points from eight races.[73] Button's final Super GT appearance came at the Motegi season finale, after which he announced his departure from the series to pursue other racing opportunities.[74][72] Transitioning from Formula One to Super GT required Button to adapt to the heavier, less agile GT car handling, which emphasized tire management, fuel strategy, and endurance-style driving over outright single-seater speed.[75] He also navigated the unique aspects of Japanese racing culture, including precise team communication and a more reserved, consensus-driven approach compared to the individualistic F1 environment.[75] During pre-season testing at Okayama and Fuji, Button logged extensive laps to refine setups and build rapport with engineers, overcoming initial language barriers and operational differences to integrate effectively with the Honda squad.[75]Endurance racing career (2021–2025)
Following his Formula One career, Jenson Button began exploring endurance racing with a one-off entry at the 2023 24 Hours of Le Mans, driving the Garage 56 #00 Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 experimental entry for Hendrick Motorsports/NASCAR alongside Jimmie Johnson and Mike Rockenfeller, finishing 39th overall in the unclassified Garage 56 entry after completing 285 laps.[76] This marked his return to the Le Mans circuit since 2018 and provided initial experience in the multi-class endurance format, highlighting the contrasts between prototype and GT machinery compared to his prior single-seater background.[77] In 2024, Button committed to a full season in the FIA World Endurance Championship (WEC) Hypercar class with Hertz Team Jota, piloting the #38 Porsche 963 alongside Phil Hanson and Oliver Rasmussen throughout the season.[78] The team faced developmental challenges with the customer Hypercar, including reliability issues and adapting to the Balance of Performance regulations, resulting in no wins or podiums for Button; his best results were sixth at the 6 Hours of Fuji and seventh at the 8 Hours of Bahrain, with a ninth-place finish at Le Mans where the car completed 311 laps on the lead lap amid intense competition.[79] Button described the prototype's handling as a steep learning curve, emphasizing the need for precise data-driven setup adjustments and endurance stint management to compete against factory teams.[80][81] For 2025, Hertz Team Jota transitioned to the Cadillac V-Series.R Hypercar as a factory-supported entry, with Button teamed in the #38 car alongside Earl Bamber and Sébastien Bourdais, while the #12 shared similar lineups including Norman Nato and Will Stevens.[82] This shift brought improved competitiveness, yielding Button's first WEC podiums of the Hypercar era: second at the 6 Hours of São Paulo behind the sister #12 car in a historic 1-2 finish for Cadillac and Jota, and sixth at the 6 Hours of Spa-Francorchamps after a strong recovery drive.[83] At the 24 Hours of Le Mans, the trio secured eighth overall, completing 386 laps in a race marked by high attrition and weather variability, though Button noted ongoing challenges in optimizing the Cadillac's hybrid system during night stints.[84] The season underscored team transitions, as Jota balanced two-car operations and integrated Cadillac's engineering input, with Button contributing to debriefs that enhanced reliability despite no outright victories.[85] On October 30, 2025, Button announced his retirement from professional racing, citing a desire to prioritize family time after over two decades in top-tier motorsport, with the 8 Hours of Bahrain serving as his final outing in the #38 Cadillac, where the #38 finished 16th overall after incurring a penalty for contact with an LMGT3 car.[4] The event concluded his endurance phase without a class win, but with notable progress in adapting to prototypes and contributing to Jota's growth as a Hypercar contender.[86]Other motorsport ventures
Following his Formula One retirement, Jenson Button engaged in several promotional and exhibition activities with Sky Sports F1 in 2018 and 2019, including driving demonstrations to support broadcasting features. In July 2019, he reunited with his championship-winning 2009 Brawn GP BGP 001 car at Silverstone, performing high-speed laps for a Sky F1 special that aired during the British Grand Prix weekend buildup, marking an emotional return to the cockpit for the former world champion.[87] These sessions highlighted Button's ongoing ties to F1 through media, blending nostalgia with expert analysis for viewers.[88] Button expanded his racing portfolio into electric off-road competition by founding and initially driving for JBXE in Extreme E, debuting as a driver in the series' inaugural 2021 season alongside rallycross specialist Timmy Hansen.[89] Although he stepped back from full-time driving duties after early rounds to focus on team ownership, JBXE—backed by Neumann Voser—continued competing, with Button occasionally contributing to strategy and participating in select events through 2024, including the team's return with drivers like Andreas Bakkerud.[90][91] This venture underscored Button's interest in sustainable motorsport, as Extreme E emphasizes environmental awareness alongside high-speed racing in remote locations.[92] In American motorsport, Button made a one-off appearance in the 2023 NASCAR Cup Series at Circuit of the Americas, driving the No. 15 Mobil 1 Ford Mustang for Rick Ware Racing in a partnership with Stewart-Haas Racing.[93] Despite challenges including heat exhaustion during the EchoPark Automotive Grand Prix, he qualified 29th and finished 18th after a competitive run on the road course, adapting quickly to stock car handling.[94][95] Button also ventured into IMSA WeatherTech SportsCar Championship with a guest drive at the 2024 Rolex 24 at Daytona, joining Wayne Taylor Racing's No. 40 Acura ARX-06 GTP entry alongside Jordan Taylor, Louis Delétraz, and Colton Herta.[96] The team secured a podium finish in third place after 24 hours of endurance racing, with Button's stints contributing to the Acura's strong performance amid intense GTP class competition.[97] This debut highlighted his adaptability to prototype racing, building on prior sports car experience.[98] Button has been a regular at the Goodwood Festival of Speed and Revival, participating in hill climbs and historic races since the early 2010s. At the Festival of Speed, he has driven iconic machines like the McLaren P1 in 2013 and his McLaren MP4-12C in 2020, setting impressive times on the famous hillclimb.[99][100] In historic events at the Revival, he competed in the 2023 Garage 56 demonstration with the NASCAR Next Gen Camry and returned in 2025 for the Freddie March Memorial Trophy (racing a Jaguar C-Type, where he finished first) and RAC Tourist Trophy Celebration in a Jaguar E-Type, showcasing his passion for classic motorsport.[101][102][103] These appearances blend exhibition driving with competitive outings in period-correct vehicles.Driving style and preferences
On-track approach
Jenson Button's on-track approach was characterized by a smooth and precise driving style that emphasized consistency and minimal risk, allowing him to extract optimal performance from the car without unnecessary errors. This method involved fluid steering inputs and progressive throttle application, which helped maintain stability across varying track conditions and reduced the likelihood of spins or off-track excursions.[104] His technique was often described as silky and textbook-like, enabling him to operate close to the car's limits without exceeding them, a trait that contributed to his reputation as one of Formula One's most error-free drivers over his 306-race career.[105] A key strength of Button's style was his exceptional tire management, where his smooth inputs minimized degradation and preserved grip over long stints. By loading tires evenly at corner entry and avoiding abrupt corrections, he could maintain competitive lap times while rivals struggled with wear, particularly on high-degradation compounds.[104] This approach proved advantageous in races requiring strategic pacing, such as endurance-style grands prix, where conserving resources translated to stronger finishes. In wet or mixed conditions, Button's expertise shone brightest, with his ability to adapt to aquaplaning risks and changing grip levels often turning chaotic races into opportunities for victory. For instance, during the 2010 Chinese Grand Prix, he navigated heavy rain to lead a McLaren one-two from sixth on the grid, showcasing deft tire transitions from intermediates to slicks amid drying conditions.[106] Similarly, in the 2006 Hungarian Grand Prix—his maiden win—he mastered a rain-affected track to pull away in the closing laps, demonstrating precision that eluded others.[107] His wet-weather prowess, honed from karting days in variable British conditions, earned him seven rain-influenced victories, far exceeding the average for drivers of comparable machinery.[105][108] Button's adaptability extended to car setups, where he adjusted his inputs to compensate for underperforming machinery, often prioritizing balance over outright speed in qualifying. This flexibility allowed strategic overtakes, such as late-braking moves or positioning for traffic advantages, rather than relying on raw pace.[109] However, his measured style drew occasional criticism for perceived caution in intense wheel-to-wheel combat, where he sometimes yielded positions to avoid collisions rather than forcing aggressive defenses.[110] Observers noted this restraint could cost him in battles against more combative drivers, though it aligned with his philosophy of race-long consistency over short bursts of risk.[111] Over his career, Button evolved from an aggressive junior formula talent—evident in his dominant British Formula Ford and Formula 3 campaigns, where bold moves secured titles—to a calculated veteran who favored intelligence over bravado. Early F1 struggles with unstable cars like the 2001 Benetton forced refinements, transforming initial raw speed into a mature, Prost-like approach that prioritized setup empathy and tire preservation.[112] By his 2009 title-winning season with Brawn GP, this evolution peaked, blending situational aggression in overtakes with overall smoothness to clinch the championship by 11 points.[108] His style's longevity was affirmed in post-F1 endeavors, where it suited endurance racing's demands for sustained pace without mechanical stress.[85]Equipment choices
Button's helmet design throughout his Formula One career was characterized by a white base color accented with elements of the British Union Jack flag, a patriotic motif originating from his karting days and carried into his professional debut with Benetton in 2000. This signature look included a blue crown and flag-inspired stripes wrapping around the helmet, providing both personal symbolism and visibility on track.[113][114] Over the years from 2000 to 2017, the design evolved to incorporate sponsor logos reflecting his team affiliations, such as Mobil 1 during his BAR-Honda tenure (2003–2008) and additional branding like Johnnie Walker, Esso, and Sensodyne in his McLaren era (2010–2017). A notable deviation occurred in 2009 with Brawn GP, where he adopted a yellow-dominated scheme to align with the team's livery and featured the Henri Lloyd sponsor logo following their partnership announcement. In 2015, Button added a personal tribute to his late father, John, with a Papa Smurf illustration on the side. He reverted to the classic red, white, and blue British flag colors in 2016 after a fan vote, maintaining the core white base until his F1 retirement.[115][116][117] Following his 2009 World Championship victory with Brawn GP—where he raced under number 22, his assigned number since entering F1 in 2000—Button retired the 22 and opted for number 3 upon joining McLaren in 2010, a choice he retained through his full-time F1 tenure until 2016. This shift symbolized a fresh chapter, as champions traditionally had the option for number 1 but often selected personal favorites. Button expressed a strong preference for Alpinestars gloves during his McLaren years, valuing their flame-resistant Nomex construction, ergonomic fit, and suede palms for enhanced grip and dexterity in high-speed conditions. His racing suits, typically team-supplied with sponsors like Hugo Boss during McLaren partnerships, were customized for mobility and fire protection under FIA standards. For seat fittings, Button relied on bespoke molds created through body scans and foam impressions, ensuring precise positioning for pedal reach and visibility, as seen in his early Benetton sessions and throughout his career.[118][119][120] In his post-F1 racing, Button adapted his equipment for Super GT (2016–2022) and endurance series (2021–2025), retaining the white base helmet but evolving designs for better ventilation and sponsor integration suited to longer races; for instance, his 2017 Super GT helmet built on his 2011 F1 version with updated graphics. For endurance events like the FIA World Endurance Championship, he incorporated gear enhancements for extended wear, such as improved cooling in suits and gloves, while culminating his career in the 2025 Bahrain 8 Hours with a special helmet reprise of his original karting design by his late father. These adaptations balanced familiarity with the demands of multi-hour stints and shared cockpits.[121][122]Media, endorsements, and philanthropy
Broadcasting and advisory work
Following his departure from full-time Formula One racing in 2017, Jenson Button established a prominent presence in motorsport broadcasting, leveraging his experience as the 2009 world champion to provide expert analysis. He joined Sky Sports F1 as a pundit starting at the 2018 British Grand Prix, offering insights during selected race weekends and occasionally serving as a co-commentator alongside lead voices like David Croft.[123][124] His role expanded over the years, contributing to coverage through the 2025 season with detailed breakdowns of race strategies, driver performances, and technical developments, drawing on his 306 F1 starts.[125] Button's engaging style, combining humor and technical depth, made him a fan favorite, as seen in viral moments during live broadcasts like the 2025 United States Grand Prix.[126] In addition to his Sky Sports commitments, Button took on advisory and ambassadorial duties with Williams Racing in 2021, returning to the team that launched his F1 career two decades earlier. Signed to a multi-year deal as a senior advisor, he focused on mentoring the driver academy, providing strategic guidance to the team, and representing Williams in media engagements, which included promotional appearances and interviews to boost the squad's profile. His role, which includes ambassadorial duties, continued through 2025, where he promoted initiatives broadening participation in racing for young talents, including diversity programs.[61][127][128] This role overlapped with his broadcasting work, allowing him to bridge on-track expertise with public-facing commentary on Williams' progress during a transitional period for the team.[127] Button has made notable guest appearances on other outlets, including BBC programs where he provided F1 analysis during his active career and post-retirement specials. For instance, he featured in the 2023 Disney+ documentary Brawn: The Impossible Formula 1 Story, offering firsthand accounts of the 2009 season, and contributed to BBC iPlayer content in related Formula 1 features narrated by Keanu Reeves in 2024.[129][130] These appearances highlighted his role as a respected voice in motorsport media beyond regular punditry. Complementing his television work, Button has engaged in podcasting and YouTube content to share deeper racing insights. He guested on Nico Rosberg's podcast in 2021, discussing topics like driver rivalries and mental preparation in F1, and appeared on WTF1's platform in 2022, reflecting on karting's influence on his professional style.[131] On YouTube, through channels like Sky Sports F1 and personal collaborations, he has produced videos revisiting key moments from his career, such as his 2009 title run, emphasizing tactical decisions and team dynamics for aspiring racers.[132] These digital formats have allowed Button to reach a broader audience with accessible, narrative-driven analysis.Commercial endorsements
Throughout his Formula One career, Jenson Button secured several long-term commercial partnerships with major brands, leveraging his rising profile as a driver. One notable association was with Honda, spanning his tenure at BAR-Honda from 2003 to 2008 and later at McLaren-Honda in 2015–2016, where team sponsorships highlighted his personal alignment with the brand through promotional events like the 2019 Civic Type R Challenge at Bathurst.[133] Button also maintained enduring deals with watchmakers, serving as an ambassador for Seiko's Sportura line and creating a signature timepiece with TAG Heuer during his McLaren years.[134] Additionally, he partnered with Santander Bank, fronting their advertising campaigns in a five-year extension announced in 2015 that capitalized on his 2009 world championship status.[135] Button's 2009 drivers' title significantly elevated his commercial value, propelling his annual earnings from endorsements and salary into the £10 million club amid intense interest from sponsors seeking to align with the new champion.[136] This surge was exemplified by his prominent role as a Hugo Boss ambassador, where he featured in high-profile photoshoots and campaigns tied to the brand's long-standing McLaren partnership, including a 2013 collection modeled during his active racing career.[137] With over 2 million Instagram followers, Button has effectively used social media to amplify brand visibility, such as promoting Hugo Boss apparel through behind-the-scenes content and endorsements that blend his racing persona with lifestyle appeal.[138] Post-Formula One, Button expanded into new ventures, including a 2021 ambassadorship with Armor All as their first global brand representative, focusing on auto care products and drawing on his motorsport expertise.[139] In 2023, Mobil 1 sponsored his NASCAR Cup Series debut at Circuit of the Americas, marking a key endorsement in his transition to American stock car racing.[140] For apparel, he collaborated on a 2021 campaign with Hackett London, showcasing tailored clothing suited to his post-racing lifestyle, while more recently endorsing modular pieces from LESTRANGE in summer 2025 promotions shared across his platforms.[141][142] In 2024, Button became a Rolex ambassador, aligning with the luxury watchmaker ahead of his Rolex 24 at Daytona participation and further endurance racing commitments.[143] These deals have sustained his public image as a versatile motorsport figure, enhancing brand reach through authentic storytelling.Charitable activities
Jenson Button established the Jenson Button Trust in 2010 to support various charitable causes, particularly those focused on health and support for vulnerable groups. The trust nominates beneficiaries and organizes fundraising events, such as annual triathlons, to provide funding for initiatives aiding recovery and well-being. For instance, in 2012, a triathlon event raised over £20,000 for Help for Heroes, an organization assisting wounded, injured, and sick British Armed Forces personnel.[144] During his time with McLaren from 2010 to 2016, Button participated in several team-backed charity efforts centered on health causes. In 2014, he launched the "Pink for Papa" campaign in memory of his late father, encouraging fans to wear pink T-shirts at the British Grand Prix, with proceeds benefiting the Henry Surtees Foundation, which supports children with brain injuries and their families; the initiative generated a significant sum through merchandise sales and awareness efforts.[145] Button also contributed to broader McLaren initiatives, including auctions and events that collectively advanced health-related philanthropy during this period. Button has long supported Great Ormond Street Hospital (GOSH), a leading children's hospital in London, through motorsport-linked events. In 2009, he attended the F1 Party at the V&A Museum, an exclusive fundraiser for GOSH organized around the British Grand Prix, which helped raise awareness and funds for pediatric care.[146] Additionally, in 2015, he donated a signed photograph for the Zoom F1 charity auction, which ultimately raised over £20,000 for GOSH Children's Charity to support treatments for seriously ill children.[147] In the realm of education, Button has advocated for greater diversity and inclusion in STEM fields, often tying his efforts to motorsport accessibility for underrepresented youth. In 2013, he endorsed the "Scientists in Sport" campaign by McLaren and GlaxoSmithKline, aimed at inspiring young people to pursue science and math subjects essential for careers in high-tech industries like racing.[148] He further championed gender diversity in 2018 by leading an industry-wide call, in partnership with Santander UK, to encourage more women into engineering roles within the automotive and motorsport sectors.[149] Post his full-time Formula One retirement, Button continued focusing on youth access to motorsport and related educational opportunities through advisory and ambassadorial roles. As of 2025, he serves as an ambassador for Williams Racing, promoting initiatives that broaden participation in racing for young talents, including diversity programs.[150][128] In October 2025, he participated in the Hyrox fitness challenge alongside his wife Brittny to raise funds for Women's Empowerment, a charity providing education and skills training to empower young women globally, matching personal donations to amplify impact.[151]Personal life and public image
Family and relationships
Jenson Button married Japanese model Jessica Michibata on 27 December 2014 in Hawaii, following a relationship that began in 2009 and included a brief split in 2010. In August 2015, the couple was targeted in a burglary at their rented vacation home in Saint-Tropez, France, where intruders allegedly used anaesthetic gas to incapacitate them while stealing jewellery worth approximately £300,000, including Michibata's engagement ring.[152] The couple separated in December 2015, citing conflicting work commitments as the primary reason, and their divorce was finalized in 2016.[153] Shortly after, in March 2016, Button began a relationship with American model Brittny Ward, whom he met while she was working as a Playboy Bunny.[154] The pair became engaged in 2018 and married on 14 March 2022 in a private ceremony in Palm Beach, Florida, after delays due to the COVID-19 pandemic.[155] Button and Ward have two children: son Hendrix Jonathan, born on 26 July 2019, and daughter Lenny Monrow, born on 31 December 2020.[156] Button has described fatherhood as a profound shift, emphasizing the challenges of balancing his racing commitments with family time.[157] Following his full-time Formula One retirement in 2016, Button relocated from Monaco—where he had lived during his racing career for tax benefits—to Los Angeles, California, to build a family life with Ward and their children.[158] This move allowed him to prioritize domestic stability amid his ongoing motorsport involvement and media work, though he has expressed missing aspects of European life.[159]Lifestyle and media portrayal
Jenson Button is widely known by the nickname "Jense", which encapsulates his affable and laid-back public image that has endeared him to fans throughout his career.[160] Button's 2009 Formula One World Championship season with Brawn GP drew intense media scrutiny, as he surged from underdog status to clinch the title with a dramatic fifth-place finish at the Brazilian Grand Prix amid high-stakes pressure and unexpected dominance early in the year.[161] This spotlight escalated during his 2010 tenure at McLaren, where his on-track rivalry with teammate Lewis Hamilton fueled extensive coverage of their contrasting driving styles, personal dynamics, and competitive clashes that tested Button's composure.[54] Off the track, Button pursues interests in water sports such as body boarding and jet surfing, alongside a rigorous fitness routine that incorporates daily gym sessions, boxing, weight training, and running to maintain peak physical condition.[162][163][164] He also harbors a deep appreciation for music, particularly rock genres, with fond memories of listening to Bob Seger during his formative karting years.[165] Button maintains a renovated property in Southern California.[166] As he retired from professional racing in 2025 following the FIA World Endurance Championship finale at the 8 Hours of Bahrain, Button shared reflective interviews portraying his career as a rewarding capstone, emphasizing personal growth, memorable triumphs, and a shift toward family priorities and leisure pursuits.[167][168] Button's media portrayal remains largely positive, highlighting him as an approachable champion whose charismatic, down-to-earth personality and humor have solidified his status as a fan favorite beyond the cockpit.[169]Racing record
Formula One summary
Jenson Button competed in Formula One from 2000 to 2017, amassing 306 race starts, 15 victories, 50 podium finishes, 8 pole positions, and a total of 1,235 championship points across his career.[170][171] He drove for seven teams during this period: Williams (2000), Benetton (2001), Renault (2002), BAR (2003–2005), Honda (2006–2008), Brawn GP (2009), and McLaren (2010–2017), with his final start coming as a substitute driver for McLaren at the 2017 Monaco Grand Prix.[172] Button's career highlight was securing the 2009 Drivers' Championship with Brawn GP, where he clinched the title by 11 points over Sebastian Vettel after a dominant start to the season.[173] Button's 15 wins were distributed across five seasons, reflecting periods of strong performance with different teams. In 2009, he achieved a career-high of six victories with Brawn GP, winning the Australian, Malaysian, Monaco, Turkish, British, and Hungarian Grands Prix.[174] He added two wins in 2010 with McLaren (Australia and China), three in 2011 (Canada, Hungary, and Japan), and three more in 2012 (Australia, Belgium, and Brazil), while his maiden victory came in the 2006 Hungarian Grand Prix for Honda.[175] His first career podium also arrived early, with a sixth-place finish in the 2000 Brazilian Grand Prix, making him the youngest driver to score points in F1 history at the age of 20 years, 2 months, and 7 days.[176]Karting and junior results
Button began his racing career in karting at the age of eight, quickly establishing himself as a dominant force in British and international competitions. Between 1991 and 1995, he secured multiple national and European titles, often with impressive win tallies that highlighted his early talent.[13]| Year | Championship | Position | Key Achievements |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1991 | British Cadet Championship (Super One Series - IAME Cadet) | 1st | Won all 34 races entered[13][73] |
| 1992 | Junior TKM (ABkC 'O' Plate) | 1st | National and open titles won[13][73] |
| 1993 | British Open Kart Championship | 1st | Championship victory[162] |
| 1994 | RAC British Junior Championship | 4th | Competed for Italian Birel team; also won Junior Yamato Cup[162] |
| 1995 | Italian Open Championship | 1st | Title win; 2nd in European Karting Championship; vice-champion in FIA Formula A World Championship (youngest ever)[13][162][73] |
| Year | Series | Team | Position | Races | Wins | Poles | Podiums |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1998 | British Formula Ford Championship | Haywood Racing | 1st | 15 | 7 | Not specified | 12[73][127] |
| 1998 | Formula Ford Festival | Haywood Racing | 1st | 1 | 1 | Not specified | 1[73][162] |
| 1999 | British Formula 3 Championship | Promatecme UK | 3rd | 16 | 3 | 4 | Not specified[73][17] |
Complete results in other series
Following his departure from Formula One at the end of 2016, Jenson Button pursued a diverse racing career in endurance and GT series, achieving a championship title in Super GT and competing in the FIA World Endurance Championship (WEC) with competitive finishes in Hypercar machinery.[85]Super GT Results (2017–2019)
Button made his Super GT debut in 2017 with a single appearance for Team Mugen in a Honda NSX-GT, finishing 12th overall at Suzuka.[177] He then committed to a full-time program with Team Kunimitsu in 2018, partnering Naoki Yamamoto in the Honda NSX-GT to secure the GT500 drivers' and teams' championships with one victory at Autopolis and four podiums across eight rounds.[177] In 2019, Button remained with Team Kunimitsu, recording two podiums but no wins, ending the season eighth in the drivers' standings after one DNF.[177] He did not compete in Super GT from 2020 onward, shifting focus to endurance racing.[74]| Year | Team | Car | Races | Wins | Podiums | Poles | Championship Position |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2017 | Team Mugen | Honda NSX-GT | 1 | 0 | 0 | 0 | N/A |
| 2018 | Team Kunimitsu | Honda NSX-GT | 8 | 1 | 4 | 1 | 1st |
| 2019 | Team Kunimitsu | Honda NSX-GT | 8 | 0 | 2 | 0 | 8th |
WEC Results (2024–2025)
Button entered the FIA WEC full-time in 2024 with Hertz Team Jota, driving the #38 Porsche 963 in the Hypercar class alongside Philip Hanson and Oliver Rasmussen; the team clinched the inaugural Hypercar World Cup teams' title despite Button's personal best of sixth at Fuji, with sevenths at Interlagos and Bahrain.[80] Key highlights included a ninth-place finish at the 24 Hours of Le Mans, where the trio completed 311 laps, and a sixth at Fuji that sealed the championship.[178] In 2025, Button switched to the #38 Cadillac V-Series.R with Cadillac Hertz Team Jota, partnering Earl Bamber and Sébastien Bourdais; the lineup achieved a podium second at the 6 Hours of São Paulo behind their sister #12 entry and finished seventh overall at the 2025 24 Hours of Le Mans.[179] The season concluded at the Bapco Energies 8 Hours of Bahrain on November 8, 2025, marking Button's final professional race, with the #38 completing 296 laps for a 16th-place class finish amid a tight manufacturers' title fight.[180] No WEC entries occurred in 2023, as Button focused on one-off endurance events.[181]| Year | Team | Car | Races | Best Finish | Podiums | Le Mans Position | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2024 | Hertz Team Jota (#38) | Porsche 963 | 8 | 6th (Fuji) | 0 | 9th | Hypercar World Cup teams' champions |
| 2025 | Cadillac Hertz Team Jota (#38) | Cadillac V-Series.R | 8 | 2nd (São Paulo) | 1 | 7th | Final professional season |