Jenson Button Prepares for His 'Final Lap' in Bahrain

Jenson Button, the 2009 F1 world champion, is set to conclude his illustrious professional racing career at the 8 Hours of Bahrain, the final round of the World Endurance Championship next weekend. The 45-year-old Briton expressed his intention to savor this last race, marking a poignant farewell after a career spanning over two decades in motorsport.

Why it matters:

Jenson Button's departure signifies the end of an era for one of Formula 1's most respected and popular figures. His career, highlighted by an underdog F1 championship win, showcased resilience and natural talent. His decision to retire from professional racing underscores the growing demands on drivers, balancing competitive aspirations with personal and family commitments, even for seasoned champions.

The Details:

• Final Professional Race: Button confirmed that the 8 Hours of Bahrain will be his last professional race. He shared his fondness for the Bahrain track and his plan to enjoy every moment.
• A Storied Career: Button debuted in F1 in 2000 and achieved his career pinnacle by winning the 2009 F1 World Championship with Brawn GP, a tale celebrated for its perseverance and timing.
• Post-F1 Endeavors: After leaving F1 in 2016, Button made a single F1 return at the 2017 Monaco Grand Prix before transitioning to endurance racing, notably with Cadillac Hertz Team Jota in WEC.
• Current WEC Standing: He currently sits ninth in the WEC drivers' standings alongside teammates Sébastien Bourdais and Earl Bamber.
• Reasons for Retirement: Button cited an increasingly busy life and the demands of extensive travel as key factors in his decision, feeling it's unfair to his team and himself to continue into 2026 without sufficient commitment.
• Family Focus: A significant driver for his retirement is his desire to spend more time with his two young children, aged four and six, acknowledging the missed moments due to his racing schedule.

What's Next:

While Bahrain marks the end of his professional racing career, Button will continue his involvement in motorsport as a Sky F1 pundit during selected Grand Prix weekends. This transition allows him to maintain a connection with the sport he loves while prioritizing family life.

• His decision reflects a common theme among veteran drivers who, after reaching the pinnacle of motorsport, seek a more balanced life away from the relentless demands of professional competition.
• Button's legacy, including 15 Grand Prix victories and a world title, will undoubtedly endure, cementing his place as one of F1's true gentlemen racers.