Aston Martin continues to strengthen its structure ahead of the new era in Formula 1, officially announcing the signing of former F1 world champion Jenson Button as team ambassador starting from the 2026 season. This strategic and symbolic return comes at a moment of major transformation for the British team, ready to tackle the new regulatory cycle with clear ambitions.
A historic link with Honda
The 2009 world champion has a long-standing connection with Honda, having raced for the Japanese manufacturer from 2003 to 2008, culminating in his title-winning season with Brawn GP, Honda’s direct successor. Honda officially returned to Formula 1 in 2026 as Aston Martin’s engine partner, establishing a full works-team agreement.
A key role in Aston Martin’s new project
Button will represent Aston Martin at global events, partner programs, and media activities, leveraging his experience, credibility, and deep knowledge of Formula 1 to support the brand’s international growth.
“Joining Aston Martin at such a transformative time for the team and for Formula 1 is incredibly exciting,” Jenson Button said. “The new official partnership with Honda was a decisive factor, and I’m looking forward to bringing all my experience working with them into my role as ambassador.”
Honda’s return and the debut of the AMR26
The announcement comes alongside the first runs of the AMR26, the car designed by Adrian Newey that made its debut during the Barcelona shakedown. An aggressive project, it is designed to maximize the new technical regulations and the Honda power unit, which is central to Aston Martin’s 2026 strategy. “The 2026 season will be fascinating,” Jenson Button added. “Being part of such an ambitious team is a huge opportunity. I can’t wait for Melbourne.”
Reunion with Alonso and commercial impact
The new role will also reunite Button with Fernando Alonso, his former teammate during the challenging McLaren-Honda years of 2015–2016. This shared history adds symbolic value, while the collaboration remains firmly focused on the future.
Aston Martin’s commercial director, Jefferson Slack, emphasized the importance of the appointment: “Jenson will be a valuable asset as we continue building the team with a long-term vision. He has an extraordinary ability to create authentic connections with fans and partners worldwide.”
With Jenson Button as ambassador, Honda as official partner, and Adrian Newey leading the technical project, Aston Martin further strengthens its identity ahead of one of the most anticipated and decisive seasons in recent Formula 1 history.
The appointment of Jenson Button as a brand ambassador for Aston Martin marks a significant step in the team’s evolution as they transition into a full-scale works partnership with Honda for the 2026 season. By bringing a world champion with such deep ties to the Japanese manufacturer back into the fold, Aston Martin is effectively bridging its past technical heritage with its future championship aspirations under the guidance of Adrian Newey. The Briton’s presence will not only enhance the team’s commercial appeal but also provide a seasoned perspective as they navigate the immense technical challenges of the new regulatory era alongside Fernando Alonso.
Jenson Button’s arrival as a key ambassador therefore underscores Aston Martin’s commitment to building a world-class infrastructure, ensuring they are commercially and strategically prepared for the dawn of the 2026 F1 cycle.
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