Jenson Button, seven-time Formula 1 world champion Lewis Hamilton’s former teammate, disclosed that they have not communicated for several years. Button, who began his F1 career with McLaren in 2007, raced alongside Hamilton from 2010 until 2012 before Hamilton left for Mercedes.
Initially, Hamilton shared the McLaren garage with Fernando Alonso and Heikki Kovalainen before Button joined the team. The British pair were teammates for three seasons, with Hamilton securing two championship titles in that period. Button retired from Formula 1 at the end of 2016, briefly returning in 2017, and has since moved into broadcasting and other racing ventures.
Jenson Button Addresses His Relationship with Lewis Hamilton
In a recent conversation with influencer Bella James, Button was asked about his closest contact, to which he responded:
“Lewis but he’s probably changed his number, we’ve not spoken in years.”
After the 2025 Miami Grand Prix, Button spoke to Sky Sports and observed changes in Hamilton’s personality compared to their time as teammates. He said:
“Lewis is a different character now than he was when we were teammates. If he was deflated, the next day he was out and on it and on super fast. Now, he’s much more of a calm personality; he’s much more of a rounded character. I think it is starting to hurt him a little bit, constantly being slower than his teammate. That’s not how Lewis Hamilton is built.”
Hamilton’s difficulties in keeping up with teammate Charles Leclerc at Ferrari in the 2025 season have been notable, with Leclerc leading the championship points over Hamilton.
Hamilton’s Efforts to Influence Ferrari’s 2026 Car
Lewis Hamilton revealed that he is actively contributing to the design of Ferrari’s 2026 car, aiming to imprint his driving style into the vehicle. Speaking at Silverstone with Sky Sports, Hamilton discussed the challenges he has faced this season with the current car, stating:
“It’s still tough. It’s a tough balance to drive, and it’s not a comfortable one. It’s not one that I want to have in the future. So I’m working with Loic (Serra) and all the guys at the factory to make sure that the next car will have some of my DNA, and hopefully we’ll be able to get some of the characteristics that I’m hoping to have in it next year.”
Hamilton remains under contract with Ferrari through the 2026 season, with an option to extend for an additional year. His determination to improve and adapt highlights his commitment to overcoming a difficult season.
Impact of the Struggles and What Lies Ahead
The ongoing challenges faced by Lewis Hamilton this season, alongside his absence of communication with Button, underscore a tense period in the seven-time champion’s career. Hamilton’s struggle to maintain his usual dominance, notably behind Charles Leclerc, marks a significant shift in F1 dynamics. Button’s insight into Hamilton’s evolving temperament and the driver’s own efforts to influence the next car suggest that both men acknowledge this transitional phase.
With Hamilton working closely with Loic Serra and Ferrari’s technical team, the upcoming 2026 car could be pivotal in restoring his competitive edge. How this collaboration will affect Hamilton’s performance is eagerly anticipated by fans and analysts, as he attempts to reclaim the pace and confidence that defined his earlier years in the sport.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Is Lewis Hamilton vegan?
A. Race car driver Lewis Hamilton openly shares his passion for veganism. He’s involved in investing in plant-based products as well.
