At the 2024 Rolex Monterey Motorsports Reunion, Formula 1 champion Jenson Button made his debut at WeatherTech Raceway Laguna Seca, having previously raced in various formats from Trophy trucks to SuperGT. Button, a Rolex Testimonee, showcased his 1952 Jaguar C-Type, originally owned by five-time F1 champion Juan Manuel Fangio. The Jaguar, well-maintained and frequently used, was a highlight of the event.
Button shared his experiences, expressing satisfaction with his fifth-place finish, noting the challenge of competing against cars from the 1960s. He highlighted the unique aspects of the race, contrasting it with his frequent visits to the Goodwood Revival. Despite the horsepower disadvantage of his Jaguar, Button found the racing exhilarating, especially the challenge of using drum brakes.
The racing at Laguna Seca, according to Button, differed significantly from Goodwood, with the former being more stop-start and less prone to drifting. He emphasized the intensity of the competition, even though the event felt more relaxed compared to professional races. Button also reminisced about his first experience on the legendary Corkscrew, comparing it to other iconic racing turns.
Button's passion for racing remains undiminished, as he continues to explore different racing formats post-Formula 1. His transition from full-time racing to selective events has allowed him to maintain his love for the sport while enjoying new experiences. Button's reflections on his racing career and future plans reveal a thoughtful and enthusiastic racer, always seeking new challenges and enjoying every moment on the track.
