Jenson Button’s final Formula 1 Grand Prix came to an unfortunate early conclusion as a suspension failure forced him to retire from the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix after just twelve laps.
The McLaren Honda Formula 1 Team driver was relieved that he realised he had the issue with the suspension before he went into the braking zone heading into turn eleven, but the 305th and final Grand Prix start was sadly over.
“A suspension component failed on the car – which very rarely happens to us,” revealed Button. “I had a failure on the right-front – and I’m just glad I was able to figure it out before I hit the brakes.
“It’s always been a massive strength of our team that components so rarely fail, but today – of all days – something did, which is just unlucky. Nonetheless, I enjoyed today massively.”
Despite such as short final race of his career, Button admitted to enjoying the race weekend in Abu Dhabi, with emotion driving him as he brought his glittering career to an end.
“My race was short, but I loved everything else,” admitted Button. “I was really emotional before I got in the car – it was such a special atmosphere to have the whole team and all my friends and family cheer me on my way into the garage. I’m just glad I was wearing my sunglasses at that moment…
“I’m very content with all I’ve achieved in my career.”
