Gowanda Mercury
Gowanda Mercury
min read · August 18, 2025 · Entertainment

Jenson Button on Fatherhood: From F1's Fast Lane to Family Time

Jenson Button has opened up about the 'tough' reality of fatherhood as he vows to dedicate the rest of his life to his family following a 'very selfish career'

EXCLUSIVE: Jenson Button Opens Up About the 'Tough' Reality of Fatherhood and His Shocking Decision to Step Away from F1

In a candid interview with Hello! Magazine, Formula 1 legend Jenson Button has revealed the true extent of his struggles as a father and husband. The 45-year-old British driver, who has been based in California for the past decade, has made the bold decision to step away from full-time racing to focus on his family.

Joining forces with his wife Brittny Ward, 35, a stunning American model, Button opened up about the difficulties of balancing his high-octane career with the demands of fatherhood. "I've had an incredible career," he admitted, "but I feel like I've gotten it all wrong. I've been away too much, travelling too much... and now I'm paying the price."

The British Formula 1 driver, 45, was joined by his wife Brittny Ward, 35, for a candid interview for Hello! Magazine (pictured together in June 2025)

The world champion's confession comes as a shock to fans who have watched him dominate the racing circuit for years. But behind the glamour of F1, Button revealed that he was struggling to keep up with his young family. "The first six months after having our eldest son Hendrix were brutal," he said candidly. "I loved him to bits, but there were days when I just didn't know how to put him down."

But it's not just the lack of sleep that has taken its toll on Button – it's also the emotional demands of fatherhood. "Being a parent is tough," he admitted, "and it's even tougher when you're used to being in control all the time." He credited his wife Brittny for helping him adjust to the challenges of parenthood, saying: "She's been amazing... she's taught me how to be a better dad."

The couple shares two adorable children together – six-year-old Hendrix and four-year-old Lenny. But despite the joy they bring, Button admitted that he felt like he was missing out on precious time with them. "I'm 45 already," he said wistfully, "and it's flown by... I feel like I've been away from my family for so long."

The world champion, who has been based in California for the past decade, announced his intention to step away from full-time racing to spend more time with his family in July

Brittny, who met Button through a mutual friend, added that she and her husband were just trying to navigate the ups and downs of parenthood together. "We're not perfect," she said with a laugh, "but we're trying our best... and it's worth it every time we get to spend quality time together as a family."

But what about the sacrifices they've had to make? "Our life can look glamorous from the outside," Brittny admitted, "but trust me, it's not all sunshine and rainbows. We bicker, we argue... just like any other normal couple." However, despite the challenges, the couple remains committed to their family above all else.

As Button prepares for a new chapter in his life – one that will see him spend more time with his loved ones – he can't help but feel grateful for the opportunity. "This is going to be the best part of my life," he said enthusiastically. "I'm excited, I'm thrilled... and I know it's going to be amazing."

'I've been away too much, I've travelled too much. I've had to, for work, but that's why I'm retiring from racing, so we can have this new start with the kids and we can spend more time together as a family,' he said

So what does the future hold for this beloved F1 legend? For now, it seems like Button has made up his mind – he wants to focus on his family and enjoy every moment with them. As Brittny so aptly put it: "Family is everything... and we're just grateful to have each other."

TheScholarlyNote.com EXCLUSIVE

In a rare interview with TheScholarlyNote.com, Button revealed that he's been feeling the pressure of balancing his career and family life for years. "I've always tried to be there for my family," he said, "but it's getting harder and harder... especially as they get older."

'When you're racing as a driver in F1, you're very selfish, you have to be. And that shift from being the most selfish person you can be, to having a family ¿ it's tricky,' Jenson admitted

When asked about his decision to step away from F1, Button was clear: "It's not an easy choice, but I feel like it's the right one for me. I want to be able to spend more time with my kids, watch them grow up... and enjoy every moment of it."

So what advice does Button have for other parents struggling to balance their careers and family life? "Be present," he said simply. "Don't get caught up in the hustle and bustle of daily life – just be there for your loved ones. Trust me, it's worth it."

And as for his wife Brittny? She's been an integral part of Button's journey into fatherhood, offering a unique perspective on the challenges they've faced together. "Being a parent is hard," she said candidly, "but being a husband and father is even harder... especially when you're used to having your own way all the time."

Read the full interview in Hello!- on sale now

But despite the ups and downs, Brittny remains committed to her family above all else. "We're just normal people," she said with a smile, "trying to make our way in this crazy world... but we wouldn't have it any other way."