Jenson Button, the 2009 Formula One world champion, has made headlines after undergoing a dramatic body transformation, adding 11kg (approximately two stone) to his frame since retiring from competitive racing. The 46-year-old has embraced the sport of Hyrox, which combines running with various fitness challenges, and showcased his new physique in a recent event in Phoenix, Arizona. In shifting his focus from the high-speed world of Formula One to the rigorous demands of Hyrox, Button has not only changed his physicality but also the nature of his athletic pursuits.

The sport of Hyrox has been gaining popularity as it offers a unique format where participants run 8 km interspersed with eight functional workouts. This shift in sports comes as a surprise to many fans who are used to seeing Button in the sleek, athletic frame typical of racing drivers. His new appearance bears a closer resemblance to that of a WWE superstar, reflecting the strength and conditioning required for his new athletic venture. Button's participation in Hyrox events, including a Pro Doubles event last year in California, underscores his commitment to fitness and new athletic challenges following his storied racing career.

As Button continues to adapt to this new phase in his life, his journey may inspire other athletes and fans to explore different avenues of fitness and sport post-retirement. The growing interest in Hyrox and similar competitions signals a broader shift in how retired athletes are navigating their athletic identities and fitness endeavors. Overall, Button’s transition illustrates the multifaceted nature of sports and physical fitness and the potential for personal reinvention after professional careers end.