Jenson Button reveals how Stefano Domenicali’s decision denied him his dream Ferrari move
Jenson Button was the 2009 Formula 1 world champion.
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Stefano Domenicali in 2013 and Jenson Button (Image via The Guernsey Press and Digital Spy)
Jenson Button, the former F1 world champion with Brawn GP, encountered little difficulty joining a new team and ultimately moved to McLaren in 2010. He remained with McLaren for several years until his retirement in 2016. However, Button has now admitted that he came extremely close to becoming an official Ferrari driver.
Speaking to Gazzetta dello Sport, he said, “I always wanted to race for Ferrari, it would have been a great thing.” He asserted his love for the team in red, racing out of Maranello, as it is every driver’s dream to race for Ferrari, backed by the Tifosi. Button made his desire to jump in their car no secret.
Jenson Button revealed the reason behind his move falling through. He said, “And I was very close. When Stefano Domenicali was in the team, we had several conversations. We even talked about some contract issues, but then he left the team (that happened in 2014) and the deal didn’t work out. Nothing happened after that, it was a shame because It would have been exciting.”
The move to Ferrari, at the peak of his career, could undoubtedly have revitalized the team who have struggled for success since 2007. Had Stefano Domenicali‘s departure not hindered the move, the possibilities for the Italian outfit and the British champ could have been endless. They could have gone on to achieve great things together.
Jenson Button’s career is synonymous with marvel and success
The superstar began his career at Williams, as long ago as 2000. After a promising start with Williams, Button moved to the Benetton/Renault team in 2001. He achieved his first podium finish in 2004 with BAR-Honda, finishing third in the championship that year. The following season, the team rebranded to Honda Racing. Button’s consistent performances helped him secure his maiden victory at the Hungarian Grand Prix in 2006.
In 2009, Button experienced a career-defining season with Brawn GP. Despite the team’s financial struggles and uncertainty, Button dominated the championship. He won six of the first seven races. He clinched his first and only World Championship that year, becoming the 10th British driver to achieve this feat.
Following Brawn GP’s transformation into the Mercedes team, Button made a surprising move to McLaren in 2010, partnering with Lewis Hamilton. During his tenure with McLaren, Button displayed his versatility and resilience, securing victories at several circuits. He was not only quick but was one of the most respected drivers in the paddock.
Button’s remarkable career spanned 17 seasons, during which he amassed 305 race entries, 15 victories, 50 podium finishes, and 8 pole positions. Known for his smooth driving style and tactical decision-making, Button was highly regarded for his ability to extract maximum performance from his car, especially in changeable, dynamic conditions.
In 2017, Button took a sabbatical from F1 but remained affiliated with the McLaren team as a reserve driver. He officially retired from the sport in 2016 but made a one-off return to Formula One in 2017, at the Monaco Grand Prix. If the Briton had secured a seat with Ferrari the outcome could have been very different.
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Tanuj Sadasivam
(245 Articles Published)