Jenson Button is a name synonymous with success, precision, and excellence in the world of Formula 1 racing. With a career spanning over two decades, Button has achieved remarkable feats on the track, winning one of the most coveted titles in motorsport — the Formula 1 World Championship in 2009. Today, with a net worth of $150 million, Jenson Button is not only celebrated for his racing accomplishments but also for his ventures outside of the track. His wealth, built through his successful racing career, sponsorships, endorsements, and business endeavors, places him among the top earners in the world of motorsport.
This article takes a deep dive into Jenson Button’s rise to prominence, his significant achievements in Formula 1, his financial success, and the legacy he has built in the world of motorsport and beyond.
Early Life and Introduction to Racing
Jenson Alexander Lyons Button was born on January 19, 1980, in Frome, Somerset, England. From a very young age, Jenson was introduced to the world of motorsports by his father, John Button, who had a background in racing and understood the importance of developing driving skills early. Button’s early years were spent following in his father’s footsteps, and it quickly became apparent that he had the natural ability and desire to pursue a career in racing.
Button began his racing career in karting, where he quickly demonstrated his skills and competitiveness. By the age of 8, Jenson was already racing in various karting championships, and it wasn’t long before he became a regular at the top levels of British karting. His success in karting laid the foundation for his transition into professional racing, and by the age of 16, he made the leap into car racing.
In 1998, Button made his debut in the British Formula Ford Championship, where he finished third in his first season. His performance caught the attention of key figures in the motorsport world, and he was quickly elevated into more competitive racing series, eventually securing a spot in Formula 1.
The Formula 1 Breakthrough
Jenson Button’s first Formula 1 opportunity came in 2000, when he signed with Williams F1 as a test driver. His role involved working with the team to help develop their cars for the upcoming seasons. Button’s work as a test driver showcased his talent and commitment, and by 2001, he was promoted to a full-time seat with Benetton, later renamed Renault.
In his first full season in F1, Button showed promise, scoring points in several races, and quickly becoming known for his skill in qualifying and consistency in race finishes. His move to Renault marked the beginning of his upward trajectory in Formula 1, but it wasn’t until 2003 that he truly made his mark in the sport.
2003 was the year when Button had his breakthrough season, finishing third overall in the drivers’ championship. This success caught the attention of other teams, and in 2004, he moved to BAR (British American Racing), where he would spend several seasons competing near the top of the field.
The 2009 World Championship: Button’s Crown Jewel
Jenson Button’s crowning achievement in Formula 1 came in 2009, when he won the Formula 1 World Championship driving for Brawn GP. The 2009 season was a turning point in Button’s career, as he had been with the team since 2008, and the team underwent a significant transformation before the start of the 2009 season.
In 2009, Brawn GP, formed by former Honda F1 team members, created a revolutionary car that allowed Button to dominate the early part of the season. His combination of consistent finishes, impressive racecraft, and his ability to adapt to the car’s unique handling earned him a commanding lead in the standings. Button won six of the first seven races of the season, putting him in a strong position to claim his first World Championship.
Button’s calm and calculated driving style, paired with his ability to handle pressure, proved critical in his battle with Sebastian Vettel and Mark Webber throughout the season. Button secured the 2009 Formula 1 World Championship with one race to spare, becoming the first British driver to win the championship since Lewis Hamilton.
Earnings and Financial Success in Formula 1
Jenson Button’s $150 million net worth is the result of a highly successful Formula 1 career that spanned over 17 years. His earnings came from various sources, with the primary one being his contracts with different Formula 1 teams, including Williams, Benetton, Renault, BAR, Honda, Brawn GP, and McLaren.
During his time with McLaren, Button signed one of his most lucrative contracts, which was reportedly worth $10 million annually. His earnings from race winnings, sponsorships, and endorsements from major brands added significant value to his wealth over the years. Button also benefited from performance-based bonuses, which would have significantly increased his earnings depending on his results in races.
While Button’s peak earnings came during his time in Formula 1, his net worth grew even further through endorsement deals. Some of the brands he was associated with include Gillette, Puma, Johnnie Walker, Honda, Vodafone, and Tag Heuer, all of which saw Button as a global ambassador. These lucrative sponsorships, particularly those with global companies, contributed significantly to his financial success.
Button’s ability to leverage his success in Formula 1 to secure lucrative endorsement deals outside of racing helped elevate his financial standing. Over his career, it is estimated that Button earned over $100 million in salary and endorsement deals, which has played a significant role in building his current net worth.
Business Ventures and Investments
In addition to his earnings from racing and endorsements, Jenson Button has invested in various business ventures and entrepreneurial endeavors. Button’s post-racing career has allowed him to explore new opportunities outside of motorsport, which have contributed to his overall wealth.
One of Button’s most notable ventures is his involvement in sustainable fashion. In 2014, he launched his own clothing line, Jenson Button’s “The Grid”, which focuses on sustainability and eco-friendly fabrics. The brand’s ethos resonates with environmentally conscious consumers, and Button has positioned himself as a spokesperson for green fashion and lifestyle choices. His company has attracted attention in the fashion world, further solidifying his brand in the public eye.
Additionally, Button has also dabbled in the world of motorsport management and has been involved in automotive ventures through his investment in automobile technology companies. His investments in these industries showcase his long-term vision and ability to diversify his income sources, ensuring financial stability even after his racing career.
Personal Life and Lifestyle
Jenson Button’s personal life has garnered a significant amount of media attention over the years. He has been married twice: first to Jessica Michibata, a Japanese model, and later to Brittny Ward, a model and social media influencer. Button’s relationships have often been a topic of interest to the media, but he has managed to maintain a relatively low-profile personal life despite his celebrity status.
As a motorsport legend, Button is well known for his luxurious lifestyle. Over the years, he has owned several high-end cars, including rare Ferraris, Aston Martins, and Porsches, all of which reflect his passion for high-performance vehicles. He has also been seen regularly participating in charity events and fundraising activities, particularly for causes related to children’s hospitals and motor racing charities.
Button’s love for travel and adventure is evident in his social media posts, where he frequently shares his experiences from exotic destinations and motorsport events. His interests outside of racing also include a deep appreciation for yachting, golf, and other luxury pastimes.
Retirement and Continued Legacy in Motorsport
Jenson Button officially retired from Formula 1 racing at the end of the 2016 season, making his final appearance for McLaren. While Button stepped away from the regular F1 circuit, he has made occasional appearances in motorsport events, including Formula E and endurance racing, where he continues to showcase his driving skills.
Though Button no longer competes full-time in Formula 1, his impact on the sport remains significant. His 2009 World Championship remains a cornerstone of his legacy, and his influence on younger drivers, particularly those from Britain, continues to inspire a new generation of motorsport enthusiasts.
Button is also actively involved in commentary and media appearances, sharing his expertise with audiences who continue to follow the sport. As a respected figure in the motorsport world, his presence in various forms of racing and his involvement in corporate activities have ensured that he remains a prominent figure even after retirement.
Jenson Button’s Financial Future
With his $150 million net worth, Jenson Button is well-positioned for financial success long into his retirement. His diversified portfolio of investments, his continued involvement in the motorsport industry, and his brand as a motorsport icon ensure that he will continue to generate income from multiple sources.
In addition to his ongoing business ventures and endorsements, Button’s investments in the world of sustainable fashion, automotive technology, and motorsport management will likely continue to grow. With his continued presence in motorsport media, sponsorship deals, and entrepreneurial projects, Button’s wealth may only increase as his legacy evolves.
The $150 Million Legacy of Jenson Button
Jenson Button’s $150 million net worth is a reflection of his remarkable career in Formula 1, his successful business ventures, and his ability to leverage his fame into lucrative endorsement deals. From his World Championship victory in 2009 to his lasting influence on motorsport culture, Button’s legacy extends far beyond his racing achievements.
As one of the most successful British drivers in Formula 1 history, Jenson Button’s journey has been marked by both triumph and tenacity. Today, his net worth is a testament to the combination of his talent, smart investments, and the passion he has for both motorsport and life beyond the track.