Jenson Button backs Lewis Hamilton to bounce back after tough first season with Ferrari
The first official pre-season Formula 1 test has kicked off, and 2009 world champion Jenson Button has revealed which driver he will be supporting as the 2026 season gets underway in Melbourne. Button’s choice may surprise some fans, but it’s rooted in respect for his former teammate’s talent and resilience.
While early testing has seen George Russell emerging as one of the favourites to dominate the new season, Button highlighted that the 2026 grid remains stacked with exceptional talent. Drivers such as Max Verstappen, Lando Norris, and Mercedes teammate Kimi Antonelli are all expected to provide strong competition, making the championship race wide open. With brand-new technical regulations introduced this year, the pecking order may shift dramatically as teams bring updates throughout the season.
Despite the early focus on George Russell, Jenson Button has made it clear that he will be cheering for Ferrari’s seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton, who endured a difficult debut season with the Scuderia in 2025.
Jenson Button reflects on Lewis Hamilton’s challenging 2025 season at Ferrari
Speaking to Sky Sports News, Button discussed whether Lewis Hamilton and Ferrari could realistically contend for the championship this year, following the Briton’s struggles in red last season. Button acknowledged the emotional impact of seeing his former teammate face difficulties, highlighting his deep respect for the Briton’s skill and competitive spirit.
Jenson Button explained that watching Lewis Hamilton last season was difficult because, despite his extraordinary career achievements, the challenges he faced with Ferrari were clearly taking a toll. Button noted that Hamilton’s frustration and determination were evident, underscoring the human side of the sport often missed in media coverage. He emphasized that fans and insiders alike often forget the immense pressure on top drivers when setbacks occur.
New 2026 regulations offer Lewis Hamilton a chance for redemption
Button suggested that the fresh technical regulations introduced for 2026 present the perfect opportunity for Lewis Hamilton to reset and regain momentum. Similar to comments made recently by Formula 1 legend Nigel Mansell, Button believes the seven-time world champion will benefit from having a more influential role in the development of Ferrari’s SF-26, tailoring the car to his driving style and preferences.
According to Button, the Briton’s experience, combined with Ferrari’s engineering resources, could allow the team to challenge at the front of the grid. Button expressed hope that the Scuderia will fight for race wins again and that Hamilton will be fully competitive after a difficult 2025 campaign. He stressed that the first few races of the season will be key indicators, but the regulation changes make a strong comeback entirely possible.
Jenson Button weighs in on Lewis Hamilton’s potential retirement
Button also addressed speculation surrounding the future of Lewis Hamilton beyond the 2026 season. Despite some media reports suggesting Hamilton might consider retiring after a challenging year, Button focused on the more human and practical aspects of the Briton’s decision.
Button highlighted that, at 41 years old, Lewis Hamilton is still relatively young in modern Formula 1 terms. Drawing comparisons with fellow drivers such as Fernando Alonso, Button stressed that life outside of racing remains an important factor. He believes that Hamilton could successfully transition into other ventures while leveraging his skillset, leadership, and teamwork experience.
In Button’s view, if Lewis Hamilton feels that continuing in Formula 1 is no longer fulfilling or aligned with his personal goals, stepping away could be the right choice. However, Button remains optimistic about Hamilton’s competitive mindset and expects the Ferrari driver to fight for podiums and wins in 2026, making the season one to watch for F1 fans worldwide.
Overall, Button’s endorsement of Lewis Hamilton underscores the respect and admiration the two drivers share, and it sets the stage for an intriguing season where Ferrari aims to recover from a difficult 2025 and reclaim its place at the top of Formula 1.
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