MELBOURNE, 08 March 2026 – As the Formula 1 paddock gathers for the season-opening Australian Grand Prix, 2009 World Champion Jenson Button has transitioned into a prominent new chapter of his career. Following his official retirement from professional racing at the end of 2025, the British icon has returned to the sport in a dual capacity as a team ambassador and lead broadcaster.
New Role with Aston Martin and Sky Sports
Ahead of the 2026 season, Aston Martin announced the signing of Button as a team ambassador. This move coincides with the team’s high-profile shift to Honda power units, reuniting Button with the manufacturer that powered many of his most successful years in F1. In addition to his corporate duties, Button has taken on an increased role with Sky Sports F1. Following the departure of Danica Patrick from the broadcast team, Button is set to provide expert analysis for a larger quota of races this season.
While Button recently admitted that retiring from professional racing—concluding with his final World Endurance Championship (WEC) race in Bahrain in late 2025—was “sadder” than his initial F1 exit, he remains a fixture in the paddock. His presence in Melbourne this weekend is particularly poignant, as he remains one of the most successful drivers in the history of the Australian Grand Prix with three victories at Albert Park.
Career Statistics and Legacy
Button’s career is defined by his remarkable 2009 championship season with Brawn GP, a team that rose from the ashes of Honda to win the title in its only year of existence. Over a career spanning 18 seasons, Button established himself as one of the most consistent and respected drivers on the grid.
| Category | Statistic |
|---|---|
| World Championships | 1 (2009) |
| Grand Prix Starts | 306 |
| Grand Prix Wins | 15 |
| Podium Finishes | 50 |
| Pole Positions | 8 |
| Total Career Points | 1,235 |
| F1 Debut | 2000 Australian Grand Prix |
Post-Formula 1 Racing
After stepping away from a full-time F1 seat in 2016, Button explored various disciplines of motorsport. He competed in Super GT, winning the championship in 2018, and most recently spent the 2024 and 2025 seasons competing in the FIA World Endurance Championship. Driving for Hertz Team JOTA and Cadillac, Button fulfilled a long-held ambition to compete at the 24 Hours of Le Mans before deciding to wind down his full-time racing commitments to spend more time with his family.
Frequently Asked Questions
When did Jenson Button retire from racing?
Jenson Button officially retired from professional racing at the end of the 2025 season, following the finale of the World Endurance Championship in Bahrain. He had previously retired from Formula 1 in 2017.
Which team did Jenson Button win his World Championship with?
Button won the 2009 Formula 1 World Championship driving for Brawn GP, winning six of the first seven races of that season.
What is Jenson Button’s current role in F1?
As of March 2026, Button serves as a brand ambassador for the Aston Martin Aramco Formula One Team and is a regular pundit and commentator for Sky Sports F1.
How many times did Jenson Button win the Australian Grand Prix?
Button won the Australian Grand Prix three times (2009, 2010, and 2012), making him one of the most successful drivers at the Melbourne circuit.