Triumph for great Button as Jenson is crowned new Formula One world champion in Brazil

By Sophie Borland and Ryan Kisiel

Thumps up: Jenson Button celebrates winning the 2009 Formula One season title after finishing fifth in the Brazilian F1 Grand Prix

For years he was dismissed as no more than a playboy who was wasting his talent.

But last night Jenson Button finally did full justice to his abilities as he was crowned Formula One World Champion.

The 29-year-old driver took the title after a dramatic finale in the Brazilian Grand Prix in Sao Paulo.

Button moved up from 14th place to overtake his closest rival Rubens Barichello, who had started in pole postilion. As he crossed the line he waved his fists and shouted: 'The championship. I am the world champion.'

It is the second consecutive year that a Briton has been crowned world champion, after Lewis Hamilton, then 23, became the youngest driver to win the title.

After the race last night, Button said it had been 'the most amazing day' and thanked his fans, his family and his girlfriend Jennifer Michibata.

He added: 'The last few races have been a bit stressful for me. It was a great race, really enjoyable and for me that was the perfect way to do it.'

Delighted: Button clenches his right fist as he crosses the finish line to win the title


I've done it: An elated Jenson gives number one finger salutes to the cameras after securing his first ever F1 title


Just champion: Jenson hugs his father John Button after winning the Formula One world championship


Button, as the son of a successful rally driver, was tipped for glory from early on in his career when he became the youngest British driver to race in Formula One, aged 20.

But over the next few years he failed to make his mark and became better known for his playboy image.

He was pictured with a string of glamorous girlfriends and was criticised for spending too much time enjoying the champagne lifestyle.


Euphoria: Jenson is absolutely delighted after winning his first F1 championship


Title win: Jenson Button on his way to the world title in action tonight during the Brazilian Grand Prix at Interlagos, Sao Paulo

Several relationships ended acrimoniously, and he reportedly dumped his fiancee, Fame Academy singer Louise Griffiths, three months before their wedding.

He also dated actress Rose McGowan, 35, star of U.S. TV series Charmed, and model Florence Brudenell-Bruce, with whom he broke up last year.


Jenson Button and Jessica Michibata pictured last month in Monza


His current girlfriend is Japanese lingerie model Jessica Michibata, who he has been seeing since February.

He has credited her foot massages with helping his improved performances on the track.

Miss Michibata, 24, has watched most of his races, but was not able to Brazil to watch his triumph because she was modelling in Japan.

Born in Frome, Somerset, Button became so obsessed with go-kart racing that he rarely spent much time on schoolwork – he only managed one GCSE, in French.

His father John, who has had a huge influence on his son's career, said last night's victory brought tears to his eyes.

He said: 'I'm all washed out. I've got to accept where he is now, he goes down in history with all the other great names.'

source: dailymail.co.uk