Jenson Button departs Williams for Aston Martin

Written by Kavi Khandelwal

In a major realignment of Formula One’s ambassadorial landscape, 2009 World Champion Jenson Button has officially departed Williams Racing to join Aston Martin.

Credit: Aston Martin

The move, announced on Monday, brings an end to Button’s five-year tenure as a senior advisor at Williams, and positions him at the heart of Aston Martin’s ambitious pursuit of the world title. Under a multi-year agreement, Button will serve as a Team Ambassador, supporting the squad’s commercial, media, and partner programs as they transition into a new era.

The strategic cornerstone of the move is the upcoming "works" partnership between Aston Martin and Honda, set to begin with the 2026 technical regulations. Button’s career is inextricably linked with the Japanese manufacturer, having started 142 Grands Prix in Honda-powered machinery and securing his maiden F1 victory with the factory team in 2006.

"Joining Aston Martin Aramco 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!"

The move comes right as Button is hanging up his helmet for good, following the end of his 2025 World Endurance Championship campaign. This new role is basically the perfect middle ground; it keeps him right in the thick of the F1 paddock without the brutal travel schedule of a full-time seat, giving him more time for his family and his hobby of racing vintage cars on the side.

The move also reunites him with former teammate Fernando Alonso and brings his veteran perspective to a technical department now led by Adrian Newey.

Aston Martin Team Principal Mike Krack emphasized that Button’s "global recognition" would be a vital asset for the team's brand. "Jenson’s deep history with Honda and his championship-winning pedigree make him the perfect fit for us as we build toward 2026," Krack noted.

As the sport prepares for the season-opening Australian Grand Prix next month, Button is expected to be a prominent figure in the Silverstone camp. For Button, the shift represents a homecoming of sorts, returning to the manufacturer that defined his greatest career milestones as he helps steer F1's most ambitious project into its next chapter.