Jenson Button Announces Comeback to Full-Time Racing: A New Chapter Begins
In a surprising turn of events, former F1 champion Jenson Button has announced his return to full-time racing, ending a hiatus that began in 2017. This decision connects directly with the anticipation for his upcoming debut in the IMSA SportsCar Championship.
Key Takeaways:
- Jenson Button, who last raced in Formula 1 at Monaco in 2017, is set to return to full-time racing. His career spans various racing formats including Super GT, DTM, World Endurance Championship, Le Mans, and NASCAR, showcasing his versatility and experience.
- Button is gearing up for his IMSA SportsCar Championship debut with JDC-Miller MotorSports at the 26th Motul Petit Le Mans on October 14. Additionally, he is eyeing a full-time role in the World Endurance Championship for 2024, potentially extending into 2025, and plans to participate in IMSA Michelin Endurance Cup events.
- Despite being 43, Button feels as energetic and competitive as a 20-year-old racer. He emphasizes his ongoing passion for racing and intends to continue until he perceives a loss in his competitive edge.
Jenson Button, the renowned 2009 Formula 1 World Champion, has made a riveting announcement about his return to full-time racing. This marks a significant shift in his career since his last F1 race at the iconic Monaco circuit in 2017. Button’s extensive racing experience, which includes prestigious events like Super GT, DTM, World Endurance Championship, Le Mans, and NASCAR, demonstrates his profound adaptability and prowess across multiple racing platforms.
The racing world is abuzz with anticipation as Button prepares for his IMSA SportsCar Championship debut, racing for JDC-Miller MotorSports in the much-awaited 26th Motul Petit Le Mans, scheduled for October 14. This event is just the beginning of what appears to be a comprehensive plan for his racing career. As stated on the IMSA website, Button is being groomed for an expanded endurance racing schedule, indicating a long-term commitment to this racing format.
Looking beyond 2023, Button has set his sights on a full-time position in the World Endurance Championship for 2024, with aspirations to continue through 2025. His schedule is also expected to include appearances in the IMSA Michelin Endurance Cup events. In his own words, Button expressed his enthusiasm for endurance racing, citing its dynamic nature and unpredictability as key attractions. His admiration for the IMSA’s management style and the constant action provided by multiclass racing with traffic demonstrates his love for the sport’s complexities and challenges.
Despite his age, Button remains undeterred in his quest for racing glory. At 43, he confronts the challenges of returning to full-time racing but does so with the spirit of a much younger athlete. Button’s determination is clear in his assertion that he still feels like a 20-year-old behind the wheel. His passion for competition remains unabated, and he intends to race as long as his health, fitness, and reactions permit.
“It never leaves you as a racing driver, that want for competition,” Button stated. He elaborated on his philosophy, emphasizing the importance of recognizing when one has lost their competitive edge. For Button, however, that time has not yet come. His declaration, “I’ve got a lot of years ahead,” resonates with both his fans and the racing community, signaling an exciting new chapter in his illustrious career.
As the racing world looks forward to Button’s return to full-time racing, his journey stands as a testament to the enduring spirit of a true racing legend. His upcoming performances in the IMSA SportsCar Championship and his potential full-time role in the World Endurance Championship are eagerly awaited by racing enthusiasts around the globe.
