Jackie Stewart says Jenson's 'Got it right'

"Got it right"
By Phil Huff (29/12/2003)
December 29 2003

Sir Jackie Stewart believes that Lucky Strike BAR Honda's star driver Jenson Button has finally "got it right", in a turn around of his earlier opinion on the man from Frome.

The triple World Champion made sure everyone was aware that he did not approve of Jenson's playboy lifestyle during his early years in Formula One, but now recognises that there's talent underneath the flamboyant exterior.

"I thought Jenson improved significantly towards the end of last season," said Stewart to British newspaper The Mirror. "He had some outstanding races and only mechanical problems prevented him from getting on to the podium. I questioned Jenson's attitude earlier in his career, but he's got it right now."

Despite David Richards saying the team can make Jenson a World Champion, Stewarts not so convinced. "It remains to be seen whether BAR Honda can make that step up. Honda have won Championships in the past so there's no reason why they shouldn't get it right again.

"If that happens, then Jenson would have the opportunity he wants without having to move to, say, Ferrari or Williams. Time will then tell whether he is good enough to be World Champion."