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Jenson Button returns to F1 as Williams senior advisor

Former Formula One champion Jenson Button has returned to the Williams team as a senior advisor on a multi-year deal.

Button made his F1 debut with Williams in 2000, aged 20. The English driver went on to win the championship with Brawn in 2009 and retired in 2016 with 15 grand prix race wins to his name.

Williams announced the appointment on Friday, saying Button will provide guidance and advice to the team at its Grove headquarters. He will also aid the development of drivers George Russell and Nicholas Latifi as well as those currently part of the Williams driver academy.

Button will attend a number of races throughout the season as part of the role.

"I am so delighted to once again be able to say that I've signed for Williams," Button said. "Back when I was 19 it was a moment that changed my life and, despite the fact it was over 20 years ago, I already feel like I never really left.

"Sir Frank Williams showed faith in me which I will be eternally grateful for and I am incredibly excited to have the chance to come back and help the team as it strives once more for success.

"There's a lot of hard work to be done but I have no doubt the future is incredibly bright for this fantastic team and I can't wait to get started."

The Williams family no longer controls the team, having sold it to investment firm Dorilton Capital in August last year.