Jenson Button’s Future in WEC Racing
Former Formula 1 champion Jenson Button’s future in the World Endurance Championship (WEC) has recently come into question. The renowned driver, currently racing for Jota, has sparked uncertainty with his ambiguous remarks regarding his continuation in the series beyond 2024.
Button made a return to full-time competition in the WEC with a two-season plan in mind. His most recent performance at Fuji, where he finished sixth alongside teammates Phil Hanson and Oliver Rasmussen, added to his already impressive track record. As discussions with Jota regarding the 2025 season continue, coinciding with the team’s transition to a factory Cadillac operation, Button has kept his comments about the future deliberately vague.
In a recent interview with Motorsport.com, Button hinted at the ongoing talks with Jota, stating, “We have talked, yes. So we will see. Well, it depends upon what outcome I want. I’m positive about getting the outcome I want.” When asked about his potential return to WEC next year, Button responded cryptically, “Ah, that’s a different conversation. I can’t say anything more.”
Exploring Career Options
Jenson Button’s post-2019 career has been a diverse and illustrious one, spanning various racing disciplines. From NASCAR to the IMSA SportsCar Championship and Extreme E, Button has ventured into different realms of motorsport with success. His recent return to Le Mans with Hendrick Motorsports’ Garage 56 entry in a specially modified Chevrolet Camaro LS1 NASCAR Cup car was a highlight, showcasing his adaptability and skill behind the wheel.
Button’s reunion with Jota for a full WEC season brought his wealth of experience to the Porsche customer team, further solidifying his reputation as a versatile and accomplished driver. As he reflects on his career trajectory, Button acknowledges the challenges of balancing professional racing with family commitments, especially as he approaches 45 years of age.
“I have a family now, and I wouldn’t want to race seriously for many more years,” Button admits. “I will always race for fun. I love racing classic cars. They are very mechanical for me, and I’m really enjoying that. So there is always going to be a racer in me who wants to carry on racing till I’m in my 50s, but that won’t be professionally.”
Future Prospects and Challenges
As Button navigates the complexities of his racing career and personal life, the prospect of working with a manufacturer like GM and Cadillac presents both opportunities and challenges. With a focus on winning prestigious events like Le Mans and the world championship, Button recognizes the significance of aligning himself with a high-caliber team committed to success.
Considering the physical and mental demands of professional racing, Button acknowledges the inevitability of losing the competitive edge with age. However, he remains optimistic about his abilities, stating, “It doesn’t feel like I have lost it yet.” As he continues to evaluate his options and weigh the implications of his decisions, Button remains focused on achieving his goals while maintaining a healthy work-life balance.
In conclusion, Jenson Button’s uncertain future in WEC racing reflects the complexities and challenges faced by professional athletes as they navigate career transitions and personal priorities. With a storied past and a promising future ahead, Button’s journey in motorsport continues to captivate fans and enthusiasts alike, showcasing his resilience, versatility, and unwavering passion for racing.