Capping a Racing Career
Jenson Button has officially ended his lengthy racing career, marked most notably by his victory in the 2009 Formula 1 World Championship with Brawn.
A Talented Driver
While a remarkable driver who secured 15 Grand Prix wins between 2006 and 2012, Button is often not remembered among the all-time greats. Nonetheless, he possessed the potential for greatness. On numerous occasions, he outperformed everyone on the track, showcasing incredible skill during peak performances, though he lacked the consistency typically associated with the elite drivers. Yet, under the right circumstances, he could triumph over any competitor.
Early Karting Success
In his karting days, Button was considered a prodigy, earning comparisons to Ayrton Senna from experienced observers of the sport. However, that level of acclaim didn’t fully carry over into his car racing career, despite achieving early successes such as winning the Formula Ford Festival in 1998.
Challenges in Formula 3
His momentum faltered in 1999 due to a lack of financial support, forcing him to race with an underpowered Renault engine. Even while finishing third in the championship after winning several races, he struggled to find a clear path forward without major backing or the benefit of junior driver programs, which were not as prevalent at the time.
Breaking Into Formula 1
Following a discussion with Alain Prost about Button’s impressive talent, he was given a test in a Prost F1 car, where he outperformed the regular driver, Jean Alesi, making a striking impression. This coincided with Frank Williams’ search for a replacement for Alex Zanardi, leading to Button’s debut in the 2000 season after winning a competitive shoot-out for the seat.
Achievements and Challenges
Despite lacking experience, Button relished his time in the spotlight. However, his reputation dipped after being released by Williams and subsequently struggling at Benetton-Renault. Even after winning the championship, he was often still seen only as a good driver rather than a potential world champion, a narrow view that overshadowed his incredible capabilities.
Unforgettable Performances
Button’s strengths lay in his smooth driving style and sensitivity to grip, which made him exceptional in variable conditions. Contrary to the perception of him being just an average driver, his career was filled with standout moments that showcased his ability to excel against elite competitors:
