Formula 1 drivers routinely face danger at 200 miles per hour, but for former world champion Jenson Button, the most frightening moment of his career occurred far from the racetrack. In a chilling 2010 incident ahead of the Brazilian Grand Prix, Button narrowly escaped an armed kidnap attempt on the chaotic streets of Sao Paulo.
The Terrifying Ambush
The reigning champion was returning to his hotel following qualifying sessions at Interlagos circuit when the routine journey turned into a fight for survival. Button travelled in a bulletproof Mercedes B-Class accompanied by his father John, physiotherapist Mikey Collier, and manager Richard Goddard.
As their vehicle became trapped in Sao Paulo's notorious gridlock, the group noticed suspicious activity nearby. Button recalled spotting men gathering by a building entrance, with one visibly playing with a handgun concealed in his trousers while another carried a baton.
The situation escalated instantly when the would-be attackers realised they'd been spotted and rushed toward the stationary car. What followed was a dramatic escape worthy of an action film.
The Dramatic Escape
Button's alert chauffeur demonstrated incredible reflexes, angling the reinforced Mercedes and accelerating through impossibly narrow gaps between six gridlocked vehicles. The armoured car sustained damage as it forced its way through the traffic, ultimately enabling the group to escape the ambush.
Looking back, Button saw the full extent of the threat: "There were two guys with handguns – quite a simple looking handgun – and one guy with a machine gun". The former champion believed sheer misfortune rather than targeted planning caused the incident, noting they had stopped directly outside the building entrance where the attackers were positioned.
Security Wake-Up Call for F1
The frightening encounter sent shockwaves through the Formula 1 community, highlighting the significant security risks facing teams in Brazil. The incident prompted widespread review of protective measures for drivers visiting high-risk locations.
Button revealed that most drivers now receive police escorts to circuits alongside bulletproof vehicles and professional security drivers. The experience left the champion shaken, describing the surreal feeling of disbelief during the attack and the uncomfortable reality of requiring such extensive security measures.
Despite ongoing security concerns, the Brazilian Grand Prix remains a beloved fixture on the F1 calendar. This year's event sees championship leader Lando Norris starting from pole position as he battles McLaren teammate Oscar Piastri and reigning champion Max Verstappen for the title.
