Aston Martin has announced the signing of Jenson Button as team ambassador ahead of the 2026 F1 season.
Button, the 2009 world champion, spent six seasons racing for Honda between 2003 and its 2008 withdrawal from F1, with the Japanese manufacturer returning for this season.
It is partnering up with Aston Martin in an effective works engine deal for F1's new regulations, with the aggressive Adrian Newey-designed AMR26 breaking cover for the first time on Thursday of the Barcelona shakedown test.
Button, who is also an advisor to the Williams team, will represent Aston Martin at "global events, partner programmes and media engagements, bringing his perspective, credibility and passion for the sport to the team’s growing international audience," according to a team statement.
The news means Button will be reunited with former McLaren team-mate Fernando Alonso, with the two leading the failed McLaren-Honda programme between 2015-2016, before Button retired from full-time racing, making a one-off appearance at the 2017 Monaco GP to replace Alonso, who was competing at the Indy 500.
"Joining Aston Martin during such a transformative time in the team and the sport’s history is really exciting for me," said Button, who claimed his first F1 win with Honda in 2006.
"Honda’s new works partnership with the team was a huge draw, and I look forward to bringing my years of experience working with them to my new role as ambassador.
"The 2026 season is going to be fascinating, and being part of such an ambitious team is a real opportunity. I can’t wait for Melbourne."
Managing director of commercial at Aston Martin, Jefferson Slack added that Button "will be a valuable asset as we continue building this team for long-term success" with "an outstanding ability to connect with fans and partners around the world."
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