Button considered retiring

In an interview with the official Formula One site, Jenson Button reflected on his transition from Brawn to McLaren at the end of 2009 and revealed that he considered ending his career at the height of his success: « When I won the championship and my contract was coming to an end, I definitely thought I could end my career, but now, two years later, I don’t think my current contract will be my last. I’ve seen so many drivers end their careers earlier than they should have and regret it dearly. The fact is I’m doing something I love and am good at: few people have that opportunity. »

The Briton also reflected on the reasons that led him to renew his contract with the Woking team: « I have a fantastic team around me and that’s key to being competitive and fighting for the championship. But it’s also because I know we can build so much more than what we currently have and that everything is moving in the right direction. Often in my career, I’ve been in a team where I felt there was no direction, but as soon as a direction is taken, you can see things start to move, as was the case at Honda when Ross Brawn joined the team. It’s so important if you want to succeed in Formula One. So yes, I’m happy where I am because this is a team that will always fight for the championship. »

However, the recent winner of the Japanese Grand Prix, before extending his contract with McLaren, had been rumored to aspire to join Ferrari in the long term: “You can’t have everything in life,” he jokes. “A team name can be exciting, just like what they have achieved, but you must always be in the right environment and in the situation that best meets your personal needs: I’ve definitely found that at McLaren!”

This does not, however, prevent the 2009 world champion from already considering his career change: « After F1, I imagine myself taking care of young drivers. A driver who has experienced highs and lows can really help young drivers achieve their dreams, not just teach them to be fast, but how to work with engineers and the rest of the team for everyone’s benefit. There are so many things drivers need to consider—nutrition, physical preparation, all that—and it’s probably difficult to listen to a manager who’s never driven, so that’s what I can bring. »

Despite everything, the McLaren driver does not plan to stop competing with Formula One: « I would like to participate in the triathlon world championship and race in other categories… maybe DTM or something like that! I definitely want to keep racing after my Formula One career. »