A surprising revelation from Jenson Button has challenged the conventional wisdom about his F1 career. The Brawn BGP 001, while iconic, was not his best car. In a recent interview, Button, the 2009 Drivers' Champion, revealed that his true F1 pinnacle was reached in the 2011 McLaren.
But here's where it gets controversial...
Button, a veteran of the sport with 15 grand prix wins, is forever linked to the Brawn GP story. Born out of the collapse of Honda F1, Brawn GP's 2009 season was a fairytale, with Button claiming both the Drivers' and Constructors' titles. It was a one-hit wonder, as the team was bought and transformed into Mercedes for the 2010 season.
Button's F1 journey began with Williams, followed by stints with Benetton/Renault, BAR/Honda, Brawn, and finally, McLaren. When asked about his best car, he didn't hesitate:
"The best car for me was the 2011 McLaren [MP4-26]. I would say it was the best car I ever drove in F1."
Button's McLaren MP4-26 delivered four grand prix wins, including an historic victory in the longest F1 race ever, the 2011 Canadian Grand Prix. That year, he finished as runner-up to an unstoppable Sebastian Vettel.
And this is the part most people miss...
Button clarified that while the Brawn BGP 001 was special due to the circumstances of his title win, it wasn't his best car. He also highlighted the Honda 006 and Williams FW22 as memorable rides.
"For the feel, I'd say the 2004 BAR-Honda [006] was incredible. It had a flexi rear wing and a V10 engine, and it was just a joy to drive. I got 10 podiums with it, but no wins.
And then there's the Brawn. Everyone assumes it must have been the best, but it had its weaknesses. We went from high downforce regulations in 2008 to less downforce in 2009, so it was better than the others, but not the quickest. Still, the memories from that car are incredible."
Button's first F1 car, the Williams FW22, also holds a special place in his heart.
"It was like a big go-kart. I got to drive it again last year at Silverstone, and it was a great experience."
So, while the Brawn BGP 001 will always be synonymous with Button's championship win, it's not his favorite car. His true F1 joyride came in the 2011 McLaren.
What do you think? Is the Brawn BGP 001 overrated, or does its story make it an iconic F1 car? Let us know in the comments!
