Jenson Button “not interested in just being on the grid” at Le Mans
Jenson Button, the 2009 Formula 1 world champion, is determined to make a big difference in the 2024 Le Mans 24 Hours race.
Wednesday’s practice and qualifying were difficult for Hertz Jota’s second Porsche, with Button, Oliver Rasmussen, and Phillip Hansen managing only 17th place. This result left them out of the Hyperpole session, which will determine the starting positions of the fastest cars. The sister team, with Will Stevens, Callum Ilott, and Norman Nato, also failed to qualify for the Hyperpole, leaving Hertz Jota with an additional challenge for the race.
Despite the setback, Button maintains high expectations. In an interview with Sky Sports, he said, “There’s every chance we’ll fight for a win at Le Mans; otherwise, I wouldn’t do it. I’m not interested in just being on the grid after the career that I had.” These words clearly demonstrate Button’s competitive mindset and dedication to success.
Button, who continues as an F1 commentator for Sky Sports, has been preparing intensively for the race. He emphasized the importance of his physical and mental preparation and said, “I kept myself busy with my runs. My fitness is great, so I’m ready for it.” This dedication reflects their desire to not only participate but to truly compete at the top.
Hertz Team Jota, known for its meticulous approach and passion for motorsport, is the perfect partner for Button. Porsche, which currently leads the World Endurance Championship with Kevin Estre, Andre Lotterer, and Laurens Vanthoor, offers Button a competitive platform to demonstrate his skills. “A team like Hertz Team Jota, they are a real racing team—that’s what I like about them,” added Button, emphasizing his confidence in the team.
For Button, the opportunity to compete against high-caliber drivers such as Estre, Lotterer, and Vanthoor is additional motivation. He is aiming to join other former F1 drivers, such as Fernando Alonso, who have achieved success at Le Mans. If Button wins, he will become the first F1 world champion since Alonso to win the prestigious endurance race.
Button is aware of the challenges that await him, but his career so far shows he is more than prepared to face them. The 24 Hours of Le Mans provides a platform where motorsport legends can continue to shine, and Button is keen to add another glorious chapter to his already impressive career. With his unwavering determination and partnership with a top team, Button is ready to show that he is not just at Le Mans to compete but to win.
