New Williams owners "not afraid of change" - Jenson Button

Williams

New Williams owners "not afraid of change" - Button

Briton has joined the team as a senior advisor

Ian Parkes

Saturday 23 January 2021 12:44

Jenson Button has declared himself impressed by new Williams owners Dorilton Capital who he claims are "not afraid of change" in its bid to return the team to the front in Formula 1.

Button has rejoined Williams on a multi-year contract as a senior advisor, 21 years after making his F1 race debut with the team in 2000.

Button's role covers a number of functionary duties, and it remains to be seen what impact the 2009 world champion can have on a team that is showing signs of improvement, but has still finished last in the constructors' championship for the last three years.

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The 41-year-old's appointment at least suggests he has faith in what US investment firm Dorilton Capital is trying to achieve after taking over from the Williams family in September last year.

“They’re not afraid of change,” said Button, speaking to Sky Sports F1.

“In Formula 1, all of the teams have things that they do, and the way that they work and go about it. I think that they’re trying to change that, trying to change the sport up a little bit. They're not afraid to try new things."

After hanging up his race gloves in 2017, Button later returned to F1 as an analyst for Sky Sports F1.

The Briton, though, felt this was "the perfect moment to rejoin Williams", a team he feels is finally on the up again after years in the doldrums.

"I'm excited about working with them to help this team back to the front," added Button.

"I think there's a new sense of optimism, there's a lot of changes and I think a lot of positive changes for the future. Things don't change overnight but I think they are on the right trajectory at the moment.

"I can't wait to get to Grove and spend some time with the drivers and all of the staff. I'll also be doing some stuff with them over the grand prix weekends when I'm there. It'll be great to see the team working live and really having my input.

"Coming from the outside with the experience that I have, of working with six different F1 teams in my career and 17 years of racing, it's always interesting from an outsider, if you like, looking in to see things that can be improved.

"I'll be working on the media side of things as well, and marketing. I'm really looking forward to it, it's a new challenge, one I'm definitely ready for."