Jenson Button Reflects on Career Highlights and Favorite F1 Cars
Jenson Button, a motorsport legend, recently shared his most cherished career moments, from his karting championship to his iconic 2009 F1 title with Brawn GP, and his Super GT success. He also revealed his favorite F1 cars, including the 2011 McLaren for its performance and the 2004 BAR-Honda for its pure driving feel, offering a unique perspective on a career spanning nearly three decades across multiple racing disciplines.
Jenson Button, a champion across Formula Ford, Formula 1, and Super GT, recently reflected on his illustrious nearly three-decade-long career. From overcoming difficult spells in F1 with uncompetitive machinery to his fairytale 2009 Brawn GP championship, Button shares the moments and machines that defined his journey in motorsport.
Why it matters:
Jenson Button's career encapsulates the highs and lows of a professional racer, from the brink of F1 exit to a world championship. His insights offer a rare, personal glimpse into the mental fortitude and adaptability required to compete at the highest levels across multiple disciplines, providing context for aspiring drivers and seasoned fans alike.
The Details:
- Early Success: Button's journey began with a Formula Super A European Championship in karting, setting the stage for his F1 debut.
- F1 Debut: In 2000, he received his first F1 drive with Williams, a moment he recalls as "pretty cool."
- First Milestones: His career saw its first podium in 2004 at Sepang, followed by his maiden victory at the 2006 Hungarian GP.
- World Championship: The pinnacle arrived in 2009 with Brawn GP, securing the F1 World Championship.
- Beyond F1: Button also cherishes his 2018 Super GT championship win, emphasizing that the emotion of victory remains consistent across different series.
- WEC Highlights: In the World Endurance Championship (WEC), Button singled out two standout moments:
- A 1-2 finish for Cadillac and Jota in Brazil (this year), appreciating the team atmosphere and competitive achievement.
- Driving the Garage 56 NASCAR-based Chevrolet Camaro ZL1 at the 2023 Le Mans 24 Hours, a unique project he believes won't be replicated.
Button’s Favorite F1 Cars:
- Best Overall Car: The 2011 McLaren MP4-26 is cited as the "best car I ever drove in F1," highlighting its performance.
- Best Feel: The 2004 BAR-Honda 006, with its V10 engine and flexible rear wing, offered a "really nice" driving experience, despite not winning races but securing 10 podiums.
- Championship Winner: The 2009 Brawn BGP 001, while not the quickest due to regulation changes, holds incredible memories of his championship win.
- First F1 Car: The Williams FW22, his debut F1 car, was "so nice to drive, like a big go-kart" and was special for its handling.
Looking Ahead:
Jenson Button continues to engage with motorsport, recently concluding a stint in the WEC. His reflections underscore the emotional and technical connections drivers form with their machinery and their triumphs. His diversified career serves as a testament to his passion for racing, and fans will undoubtedly continue to follow his future endeavors, whether as a commentator, team advisor, or occasional racer.