Premature end for Jenson Button as Fernando Alonso finishes 10th in Abu Dhabi

A chapter of Formula 1 turned this Sunday with the announced (but not yet confirmed) retirement of Jenson Button. The Briton mentioned at the beginning of the weekend that he didn’t see himself returning to racing in 2018, despite the contract he has with McLaren. Although he came to the grid thinking he was living his last Grand Prix, he would have preferred his race to be a bit longer than it was.

Indeed, his front right suspension gave way when passing over a curb that was a bit more pronounced than the others, as he commented at the end of the race: « An element of my suspension failed, which happens to us very rarely. I had a breakage on the front right. I’m just relieved to have realized it before braking. It has always been a great strength of our team to have few component failures. But today, on such a special day, something broke, which is just unlucky. »

But that’s not what the 2009 world champion will remember. It’s mostly about having spent a weekend with his entire family and loved ones by his side. The guard of honor that was reserved for him will certainly remain in his mind for a long time: « Despite everything, I really enjoyed this day. My race was short but I loved every bit of it. There was a lot of emotion when I got into the car. It was such a special atmosphere having the whole team and all my friends celebrating me in the pit lane. I’m glad I was wearing my sunglasses at that moment! »

Surprising @JensonButton with a steering wheel setup change, Papa Smurf style. #DefaultFE #ThankYouJenson pic.twitter.com/frndRXfgOp

— McLaren (@McLarenF1) 27 novembre 2016

For Fernando Alonso, it was about maintaining a place in the top 10, hard-won during the qualifications. Mission accomplished as he finishes just behind his former teammate, Felipe Massa: « The race was fun but difficult. I couldn’t do much against the Force India and Williams, but I fought until the last lap and was quite close to him. So I’m happy with the point scored today and for securing our place in the Constructors’ and Drivers’ Championship. »

If a big winter of work awaits the men from Woking to get closer to the top of the hierarchy, the time is above all for celebrating Jenson Button’s departure. He does not hide that the evening is likely to be quite festive: “I’m very happy with what I’ve achieved in my career. Now, it’s over. I’m savoring the moment, and tonight, it’s going to be a hell of a party!”