Jenson Button Pays Tribute to Late Father with Special Helmet in Final Race

Jenson Button will conclude his illustrious professional racing career this weekend at the 2025 World Endurance Championship finale in Bahrain, donning a helmet designed by his late father, John. This emotional tribute marks the end of a remarkable 40-year journey in motorsport.

Why it matters:

Jenson Button's retirement signifies the departure of a beloved figure in motorsport, a Formula 1 World Champion, and an enduring presence across various racing disciplines. His final race with a helmet designed by his father is a poignant nod to his roots and the profound impact his father had on his career, offering fans a heartfelt farewell to an era.

The Details:

• Retirement Confirmation: Button recently confirmed to BBC Radio Somerset that the Bahrain WEC round would be his last as a professional racing driver.
• Post-F1 Career: After his last full F1 season in 2016, Button remained active, competing in Japan's Super GT (winning the championship in 2018), IMSA, Extreme E, British GT, DTM, and the WEC.
• WEC Stint: He took on full-time WEC seasons with Jota in 2024 and 2025, recently achieving a podium finish in Sao Paulo. However, he will not continue in the series next season.
• Family First: Button, 45, is choosing to retire to spend more time with his two young children, citing the demanding nature of a racing schedule and his desire not to sacrifice family time.
• Special Helmet Design: For the 8 Hours of Bahrain, Button unveiled a striking black and yellow helmet. This design harks back to his very first karting helmet, which was created by his father, John Button.
  • Childhood Inspiration: Button shared that his father designed the original helmet with 'yellow horns to scare the other kids,' reflecting a touching, personal touch from his karting beginnings.
• John Button's Legacy: Nicknamed 'Papa Smurf,' John Button was a popular and supportive figure in the F1 paddock, an ever-present force throughout Jenson's career, including his fairytale 2009 championship win. John passed away in January 2014.

Looking Ahead:

Jenson Button's farewell race will be more than just a competition; it will be a celebration of a storied career and a heartfelt tribute to the man who started it all for him. While the grid will miss his presence, Button's decision underscores the increasing importance top drivers place on family life post-career. His legacy as a true racer and a champion, both on and off the track, will undoubtedly endure.