Jenson Button has set the F1 paddock alight with his latest comments, claiming Max Verstappen is “probably the best racing driver that’s ever raced in a Formula 1 car” as rumours persist about Verstappen’s potential move to Mercedes.
With the 2025 British Grand Prix underway and speculation mounting about Verstappen’s future, the reigning champion received a ringing endorsement from none other than 2009 world champion Jenson Button.
Speaking on Sky Sports F1, Button said: “The good thing that Max has in his favour is he’s probably the best racing driver that’s ever raced in a Formula 1 car. My view. So everyone wants him.”
Button’s verdict comes at a crucial moment in the driver market. Although Verstappen remains under contract with Red Bull until 2028, an exit clause could allow him to leave earlier, and persistent whispers in the paddock have linked the Dutchman with a high-profile switch to Mercedes.
While Button has seen and raced against legends of the sport, his view that Verstappen might be the best ever is shared by many in the paddock after another season of remarkable performances from the Dutchman.
“So it’s a nice position to be in, but it’s also tricky to really pick and choose who’s going to be competitive next year,” Button said, acknowledging the unique challenge Verstappen faces as he weighs his options for F1 2026 and beyond.
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Button highlighted the qualities that have put Verstappen at the summit of F1: “I think that Red Bull is a team that’s given him so much over the years and this car really suits his driving style.
“But will they be good enough next year? You know, everyone’s talking about the power units. The power unit of the Mercedes is very strong compared to everything else. So he wants to be in a Mercedes.”
Even as Aston Martin and other teams have expressed interest in Verstappen, Mercedes remains the front-runner should the Dutchman seek a fresh challenge.
The prospect of Verstappen joining the Silver Arrows has kept F1 fans and insiders guessing, but Button was clear on the unique bargaining power Verstappen holds.
The greatest ever? Button’s view sparks debate
As the British Grand Prix weekend unfolds at Silverstone, Button’s remarks have become a talking point not just in the media pen but among fans, with many debating whether Verstappen truly belongs above iconic champions like Michael Schumacher, Lewis Hamilton, and Ayrton Senna.
Button’s comments also add a layer of intrigue to an already complex driver market. If Verstappen decides to exercise his options, it could send shockwaves through the sport and reshape the competitive landscape for years to come. Yet, even with the future uncertain, Button’s assessment cements Verstappen’s status as the standard-bearer for the modern era.
The Dutchman’s dominance has been built not only on natural talent and aggression but also on relentless consistency, adaptability, and a unique ability to extract performance from his machinery in any condition. With Red Bull still a formidable force and Mercedes believed to be offering an enticing package for the next rules cycle, Verstappen finds himself with enviable choices.
