“Somebody wrote me a nice message saying: ‘Everyone else’s lives will go back
to normal, but it won’t for you, but never feel guilty about having a laugh
or a smile because it’s exactly what he would want.’ I thought it was a
lovely message.
“It’s when you’re away from racing or away from people, that’s when it hurts.
It hits you like a stake through the heart.”
Affectionately known as ‘Papa Smurf’, John Button was a hugely popular figure
in the Formula
One paddock, supporting Jenson’s career from his early days karting
in Frome, Somerset, through his world championship triumph in 2009.
Button Snr enjoyed his own successful career in rallycross in the Seventies,
and was the toast of the paddock as he celebrated his 70th birthday last
year in Hungary. He was always an immense support at race weekends, but
never made the mistake of interfering directly with Jenson’s team.
Martin Whitmarsh, who got to know John Button well from his time as McLaren
team principal, said at the time of his death that he was the most devoted
driver’s father he has ever known.
“At the grand prix, obviously I won’t be alone,” said Jenson. “I’ll have all
my family and friends around me, which is going to help a lot. It’s still
going to be unbelievably difficult, whether we have a good race or a bad
race. Even with all those people there, whatever happens it’s going to be
tough. Whether I liked it or not, he was always the last person who gave me
a high five or a cuddle before I got into the car. I’m going to miss that a
lot.
“If I make the podium, it will be unbelievably emotional. And if it all turns
to s— and we have a c— race, it will also be emotional because he’s not
there to pick me up.
“There were always those times when you had a bad race and he would come in
and put it into perspective. That would annoy me in some way, because I knew
he was right, but when your dad’s trying to tell you something when you’re
in a bad mood it’s always difficult. It’s going to be a very emotional
weekend. Not the only one this year.”
The 2009 world champion will take to the track on Sunday for his 15th season
in Formula One, and he admitted just weeks after the loss of his father in
January that he had considered not driving this year.
Yet this season also represents an inviting opportunity for Button. The
struggles of the previously all-conquering Red Bull have opened the door to
their rivals, McLaren included, and Button is determined not to waste the
opportunity.
“I’m very surprised [by Red Bull],” Button said. “It’s strange. They are
definitely not out of it but whether they will be there at the first race or
not I don’t know. It would be pretty special if they could get to the first
race and finish it with both cars, or even with one car, after what they’ve
had through testing. I think if they do, they’ll be quick.
“We’re not quickest, but we’re not in bad shape. You would be looking at Q3
and then a very good points finish if you can get to the end. But Williams
is the team that is looking most competitive. That’s good for the sport,
having them back near the front. I’m happy for Frank [Williams].”