Jensen Button expects ex-teammate Hamilton to bounce back

Former Formula One world champion Jenson Button claims that former colleague Lewis Hamilton (38), who is the favorite again with Red Bull to win in 2024, needs "the right car" to get back to the front of the grid the following season.

For the second consecutive year, Hamilton, driving for Mercedes, failed to secure a grand prix victory, while Max Verstappen triumphed in 19 out of 22 races for Red Bull. Verstappen's teammate, Sergio Perez, clinched victory in two of the remaining three races.

Button, speaking to AFP, expressed confidence in Red Bull's continued dominance, noting their strong performance this year and ongoing development of next year's car.

He highlighted that while Verstappen appeared dominant in race results, the season featured several thrilling contests. Verstappen faced challenges despite ultimately emerging victorious, making for an exciting year of racing.

Reflecting on his own experiences, Button, set to return to full-time racing in the 2024 World Endurance Championship, recalled his dominant streak in 2009, winning six of the first seven races for Brawn en route to the title.

He commended Verstappen's unwavering focus, acknowledging the Dutch driver's flawless execution and the disparity in performance between Verstappen and his teammate.

Looking ahead to 2024, Button predicted Red Bull to remain favorites but anticipated closer competition from other teams. He emphasized the challenge of defeating Verstappen in a Red Bull when the driver is in top form.

Button maintained that Hamilton, now 39, possesses the skill and determination to compete at a high level. He believed that in the right car, Hamilton could challenge Verstappen, anticipating an exciting rivalry between the two.

Button, aged 43, disclosed plans to participate in the World Endurance Championship's full series, including Le Mans, driving for Hertz Team JOTA in the Hypercar category with a Porsche 963.