Jenson Button Snubs Lewis Hamilton for Russell and Ricciardo As His Ideal F1 Teammates

Former world champion Jenson Button had retired from Formula One racing back in 2016. But he is still very much involved in the sport, as he is a senior advisor for Williams and pundit on Sky Sports. In a new interview, the 2009 world champion was asked who would he pick as his ideal teammate. The answer was quite surprising, as he did not pick his former teammate Lewis Hamilton.

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Jenson Button picks George Russell and Daniel Ricciardo as his teammates over Lewis Hamilton

As reported by Standard. co.uk, the former McLaren driver picked his charge George Russell as his ideal teammate. He regards the young Brit in very high stead and praised him for him a stable head on his shoulder.

“It’s a tricky one. George Russell is pretty exceptional. I think he is extremely quick but also has his head screwed on. He’s intelligent and knows where he needs to work and improve himself every weekend,” said Button.

Formula One F1 – Italian Grand Prix – Autodromo Nazionale Monza, Monza, Italy – September 10, 2021 Williams’ George Russell arrives at the circuit REUTERS/Jennifer Lorenzini

He also picked Daniel Ricciardo, as he considers the Aussie as his good friend. “Or Daniel Ricciardo, because he’s a lot of fun. He’s a good friend, and he definitely embraces the Drive to Survive life,” said Jenson.

It was surprising to see Button did not pick his former teammate Lewis Hamilton and went for George Russell.

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Former world champion states what he misses about F1

Jenson Button has not raced in F1 since his one-off appearance in the 2017 Monaco Grand Prix. The Brit is regarded as one of the best drivers of this era with his smooth as silk driving skills. He mentions he misses driving an F1 car a lot.

ABU DHABI, UNITED ARAB EMIRATES – NOVEMBER 20: Jenson Button of Great Britain and McLaren prepares to take his place for a team photograph during previews ahead of Abu Dhabi Formula One Grand Prix at Yas Marina Circuit in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates. (Photo by Clive Rose/Getty Images)

“Driving an F1 car – there is nothing like it. They are extremely fast, finely tuned beasts. A thousand horsepower, very lightweight and exacting equipment. I just love racing Formula 1 cars.

Racing when you’re wheel-to-wheel with the best in the world – that’s the bit I love, and that’s the bit I miss.” said the former Williams driver.

Jenson Button is considered as of the drivers of all time in mixed conditions. He is currently guiding Williams drivers in their early racing career and helping the team move forward.

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