Jenson Button's 2009 Formula 1 Championship Journey
Jenson Button, who won the 2009 Formula 1 drivers' championship, imposed a sex ban on his then-girlfriend during that challenging season. His victory marked the culmination of a remarkable rise from adversity to glory.
Challenges Before the Season
At the end of the 2008 season, Button's F1 future was uncertain after Honda unexpectedly left the sport. The team's future, based in Brackley and later becoming Mercedes, seemed bleak, putting hundreds of jobs at risk. A rescue led by Ross Brawn and Nick Fry saved the team.
Dominant Start and Growing Pressure
With Mercedes engines powering the team, Button dominated the start of the 2009 season, winning six of the first seven Grands Prix and building a strong lead. However, as the season progressed, his teammates and rivals like Rubens Barrichello and Sebastian Vettel started closing the gap.
Support from Jessica Michibata
Throughout the season, Button was supported by his model partner Jessica Michibata. After finishing fifth in Singapore, he praised her care and attention:
"My amazing girlfriend... after qualifying, we got to my room. I'm not going to tell you all the details but she said lie down, so I did, and she gave me a foot massage. She said, 'So tell me about today.' That was so cool. She really listens."
Button is now 45 years old and reflects on this defining chapter in his career.
Author's summary: Jenson Button overcame significant challenges in 2009, winning the F1 title while managing intense pressure and personal discipline, supported strongly by his partner.
Would you prefer a more detailed breakdown of Button's season or a focus on his personal life during the championship?