Former Formula 1 world champion Jenson Button has signed a multi-year deal to become Aston Martin's team ambassador ahead of the 2026 season. He switches from a similar role at Williams, drawn by the team's new works partnership with Honda. Button will support media, partner, and commercial activities for the Silverstone-based squad.
Jenson Button, the 2009 Formula 1 world champion, has transitioned from his ambassadorial role at Williams to join Aston Martin in a similar capacity. The 46-year-old Briton, who debuted in F1 with Williams in 2000, held positions as ambassador, advisor, and heritage driver for the team from 2021 to 2025. Although he never raced for the Silverstone-based outfit—previously known as Jordan and Force India—this move aligns with Aston Martin's evolution into a Honda works team starting in 2026.
Button's extensive history with Honda powered much of his career. He competed in 142 grand prix with Honda engines, more than any other driver including Ayrton Senna's 96, across teams like BAR (later Honda) and McLaren. His first F1 victory came at the 2006 Hungarian Grand Prix with Honda as a constructor, and he later won the 2018 Super GT title for the Japanese manufacturer.
In his new role, Button will aid Aston Martin's media, partner, and commercial efforts, bringing "credibility, global recognition, storytelling, perspective and passion," as described by the team. He will reunite with two-time champion Fernando Alonso, his former McLaren teammate from 2015 and 2016.
"Joining Aston Martin during such a transformative time in the team and the sport’s history is really exciting for me," Button said. "Honda’s new works partnership with the team was a huge draw and I look forward to bringing my years of experience working with them to my new role as ambassador. The 2026 season is going to be fascinating and being part of such an ambitious team is a real opportunity. I can’t wait for Melbourne!"
Jefferson Slack, Managing Director of Commercial at Aston Martin, welcomed Button, noting his "World Championship pedigree, deep experience with Honda, and an outstanding ability to connect with fans and partners around the world." Button retired from professional racing after the 2025 World Endurance Championship with Cadillac Team Jota, citing the demands of endurance racing at his age. "If you want to race in endurance you have got to be in it the whole time," he explained in September 2025.
