Jenson Button is Britain’s answer to a Formula 1 winner. Taking over from Damon Hill in the nation’s popularity stakes, Button began his career at the age of 18 when in 1998 when he won the British Formula Ford Championship.

A year later he entered Formula Three, and impressed the crowds with a triple win. In 2000, his inexperience let him down, causing him to lose out to his more seasoned nemesis Ralf Schumacher at the Spa Francorchamps.

A series of both good and bad results ensued, and in 2005, Button took part in TV commentary for the first time, after his team was disqualified for 2 races.

This was a fairly productive year for Button, finishing 4th at the French Grand Prix and 2nd in Germany.

Read on to find out more about Jenson Button, from his career to his private life!

Jenson Button’s career achievements

• In 1998 he won the McLaren Autosport BRDC Young Driver of the Year

• He first got to drive a Formula One car in 1999 at the age of 19

• Moved to Benetton in 2001

• He came 8th in the Formula One World Championships

• Although born in Somerset, Jenson now lives in Monaco

• He was first inspired a by a karting trip he took when he was 8

• He was strongly encouraged by his father, John Button (former rally car ace)

• He has three older sisters