Jenson Button Opens Up About Ross Brawn’s Dire Warning: “You’re Making a Mistake!”
In a stunning revelation that shakes the very foundation of Formula 1 history, former world champion Jenson Button has recounted the exhilarating yet daunting experience of racing alongside the legendary Lewis Hamilton. Button, who partnered with Hamilton at McLaren in 2010, described this period as the ultimate challenge he craved after clinching the drivers’ championship.
Reflecting on his decision to join forces with a seven-time champion, Button shared his thoughts during an exclusive interview with Sky Sports F1. “When I left Brawn in 2009 as a world champion, I was like, ‘I need a new challenge,’ and that challenge was to go up against Lewis Hamilton,” Button confessed. However, it wasn’t just a walk in the park. His former boss, Ross Brawn, cautioned him vehemently, saying, “You’re making a mistake.”
Despite the ominous warning, Button dove headfirst into the competitive arena, embracing the intense rivalry with Hamilton. “I really enjoyed the partnership we had,” he declared, reminiscing about the thrill of winning a race and besting Hamilton in identical machinery. “It was almost like winning a world championship,” he added, highlighting the immense respect he has for his teammate, even if victories over him were few and far between.
Button’s admiration extends beyond Hamilton; he also holds Fernando Alonso in high regard, reflecting on the sheer talent and work ethic of both drivers. “Seeing the way they work behind the scenes, not just in the car, is really impressive,” Button noted.
After a storied career that lasted until 2016, Button stepped away from the F1 spotlight at the age of 36, opting to pursue a diverse racing portfolio that included the World Endurance Championship and even dirt racing in Baja. “I think of myself as a racing driver, not just an F1 driver,” he asserted. The decision to retire wasn’t just about racing; it was a call to spend more time with family and embrace new adventures.
Now, as Button reflects on his unique journey, he acknowledges the enriching experiences he’s gained. “I’ve had such an amazing career. Very, very lucky,” he stated, emphasizing that hanging up his race boots was a necessary step towards a fulfilling life beyond the racetrack.
As fans and motorsport enthusiasts digest Button’s insights, one thing is clear: the rivalry between Jenson Button and Lewis Hamilton was not just a battle for supremacy on the track but a thrilling chapter in the epic saga of Formula 1.








