British Formula 1 champion Jenson Button has decided to retire from professional racing after a successful career that included winning the 2009 title. While he left F1 in 2016, Button continued to compete in events like the World Endurance Championship. His final professional drive will be in the upcoming eight-hour race in Bahrain.
Despite his retirement, Button remains a prominent figure in the sports world, offering expert analysis as a pundit for Sky Sports. Known for his accomplishments in Formula 1, Button is celebrated for his victory over Lewis Hamilton, an achievement that few have attained.
Button made his mark in the early 2000s with the Renault team, but his time with them was cut short when he was replaced by Fernando Alonso. Moving on to Honda, Button secured podium finishes and clinched his first F1 win in 2006. Following Honda’s departure in 2008, Button faced uncertainty until Ross Brawn’s purchase of the team led to his remarkable championship win with Brawn GP.
Reflecting on his career, Button acknowledged the challenges he faced during his championship year, emphasizing the pressure he placed on himself. Subsequently, he joined McLaren in 2010, engaging in a friendly rivalry with Hamilton. Despite a strong start, Button’s success was overshadowed by a car that favored Hamilton’s driving style.
In 2011, Button showcased his exceptional driving skills, highlighted by his remarkable win in Canada and an emotional victory in Japan. Outperforming Hamilton that season, Button proved his prowess on the track, a feat matched by only a select few.
After leaving McLaren, Button continued racing until announcing his retirement at the age of 45 to prioritize spending time with his young family. Recognizing the importance of family over professional pursuits, Button expressed his desire to cherish moments with his children.
For Formula 1 enthusiasts, Sky offers a comprehensive viewing package that includes live coverage of practice sessions, qualifiers, and races. The bundle also provides access to various TV channels, along with subscriptions to Netflix and Discovery+.
