F1 champion Jenson Button sets sights on Le Mans title

Toyota leading the start of the 2023 24 Hours of Le Mans — Photo: © IMAGO

Latest F1 News

F1 champion sets sights on alternative motorsport title

Jenson Button will race for Hertz Team Jota at the Le Mans 24

Kevin McKenna

Wednesday 12 June 2024 15:57

A former Formula 1 world champion will look to make history this weekend as he targets another motorsport title.

Le Mans 24 is widely considered as one of the most prestigious events in the world, and is one of the races - along with the Monaco Grand Prix and Indianapolis 500 - that form the Triple Crown of motorsport.

F1 Headlines: Hamilton-Mercedes DIVORCE theory given as fans vent FURY

Article continues under video

186 drivers in 62 cars will take to the iconic Circuit de la Sarthe in France from June 15-16, as they aim to cover the greatest distance over a 24-hour period in a bid to be crowned champion.

Just five F1 title winners have achieved success at Le Mans, the most recent of which was Aston Martin star Fernando Alonso, who clinched back-to-back victories in 2018 and 2019.

The UK holds the record for the most race wins with 34, while British icon Derek Bell is the event's most successful driver, winning five times.

Jenson Button enjoyed spells in F1 with a number of teams

Fernando Alonso won the prestigious event in 2018 and 2019

Can Button join list of legends?

Now, former McLaren driver Jenson Button is looking to add his name to that illustrious list of winners as he prepares to embark on a new chapter in his career.

Racing for Hertz Team Jota, the 44-year-old will share driving duties with fellow Briton Phil Hanson and Denmark's Oliver Rasmussen.

After signing with the team in 2023, Button - who has driven in various motorsport categories since his retirement from F1 in 2017 - spoke of his excitement ahead of the upcoming challenge.

"There is every chance we can fight for a win at Le Mans, otherwise I wouldn't be doing it," he said, speaking to Sky Sports.

"I'm not interested in just being on the grid after the career I've had.

"I've kept back busy with my racing; my fitness has been great, so I'm ready for it, and a team like Hertz Team Jota, they are a true out-and-out racing team - that's what I love about them."