October 30 — Former F1 World Champion and British racing legend Jenson Button has officially announced that he will retire after next month’s WEC 8 Hours of Bahrain, marking the end of an extraordinary 25-year racing career.
Speaking to the BBC, Button said,
“I’ve truly enjoyed my time racing with the Jota team in WEC, but there are so many things in life waiting for me. Continuing until 2026 wouldn’t be fair—to myself or the team. My two children are only four and six. When you’re away for a week, you miss moments you can never get back.”
Button began his Formula 1 journey with Williams in 2000, making his debut at the Australian Grand Prix. His first race win came at the 2006 Hungarian Grand Prix, and his final victory at the 2012 Brazilian Grand Prix. His last F1 appearance was at the 2017 Monaco Grand Prix.
The highlight of his career came in 2009, when he captured his one and only World Drivers’ Championship with Brawn GP. That same year, his remarkable performance earned him the Laureus Breakthrough of the Year Award and the title of Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE).
Throughout his F1 career, Button achieved 15 Grand Prix victories and 50 podium finishes.
After leaving F1, he continued his passion for racing, competing in Japan’s Super GT Series, the 24 Hours of Le Mans, the World Endurance Championship, and the DTM. He also served as a Sky Sports F1 commentator and analyst, sharing his expertise with fans worldwide.
Now, Jenson Button steps away from the track to embrace family life—closing one legendary chapter and opening another. 🏁
