The Ultimate Test: Challenging a Future Legend
Stepping into the lion's den after clinching a World Championship? That's exactly what Jenson Button did, describing his time alongside Lewis Hamilton at McLaren as the ultimate test of his career.
Key Takeaways from Button's McLaren Stint:
- Jenson Button sought a fresh challenge after his 2009 title win.
- Ross Brawn advised against joining McLaren with Lewis Hamilton.
- Beating Hamilton in the same car was "almost like winning a world championship" for Button.
- Button now enjoys F1 from an analyst's perspective after a diverse racing career.
Button arrived at McLaren in 2010 as a reigning champion, a rare move for a driver seeking to dethrone a rising star like Lewis Hamilton. His decision wasn't taken lightly, especially with former boss Ross Brawn voicing concerns. Yet, Button saw it as an essential evolution for his career.
"I needed a new challenge," Button revealed to Sky Sports F1, elaborating on his mindset after his 2009 title with Brawn GP. "That challenge was to go up against Lewis Hamilton." This drive for competitive excellence defined his approach.
Brawn's Warning and Button's Resolve
The apprehension wasn't just internal. Ross Brawn, a figure synonymous with Button's championship success, actively discouraged the move. This counsel, however, only solidified Button's resolve. "Ross Brawn even said, 'You're making a mistake.' So then I was in with both feet," Button recounted, highlighting his unwavering commitment.
This period at McLaren forged an intense but respectful partnership. Competing directly with a driver of Hamilton's caliber pushed Button to his absolute limits.
The Thrill of Victory Against a Teammate Titan
For any driver, beating a teammate is a crucial benchmark. For Jenson Button, triumphing over Lewis Hamilton in identical machinery was more than just a win; it was a profound personal validation. "Winning a race and beating Lewis Hamilton in the same car was almost like winning a world championship," he stated, underscoring the immense satisfaction derived from those victories.
While it "didn't happen enough," as Button candidly admitted, those moments were incredibly special. He holds immense respect for both Hamilton and Fernando Alonso, another legendary teammate, appreciating their dedication both on and off the track.
Life Beyond F1: A Racing Driver's Journey
Button's career didn't end with his Formula 1 departure in 2016. Rejecting the label of "just an F1 driver," he embarked on a diverse racing adventure. This included competing in Japan, the World Endurance Championship, prestigious 24-hour races, Baja dirt racing, and even NASCAR.
This expansive post-F1 chapter allowed Button to explore different facets of motorsport before deciding it was "time to hang up my race boots." Now, with more family time and a new role as an insightful F1 pundit, he continues to contribute to the sport he loves, offering his unique perspective as a former champion who dared to challenge the best.
