Jenson Button voted best of 2009

Now in its second year, the concept of the awards is simple - ask every driver or rider in F1, the WRC and MotoGP who impressed them the most during the season. The results are fascinating, and give a valuable insight in to who the professionals really regard as the best.

Taking over from last years winner, Lewis Hamilton, Jenson Button said "It's an honour to be voted the Most Impressive F1 Driver of the Year in the GPWeek Awards, particularly as the votes came from the guys competing in the WRC and MotoGP this season.

"It's always nice to be recognised by your fellow racers as they know the dedication and hard work needed to make it the top in motorsport," he continued. "We've had a fantastic season at Brawn GP after our difficult times over the winter, and I am so proud of our double achievement with the Drivers' and Constructors' titles."

GPWeek writer Will Buxton wasn't quite so positive in his personal selection of the top five F1 drivers of 2009, putting Lewis Hamilton on top followed by Sebastian Vettel. Jenson was listed third, with Buxton commenting that "even though that second half of the season wasn't as good as Button wished, he scored in every 2009 race but one. His consistency was stunning."

Fourth place taken by team mate Rubens Barrichello, tied with Mark Webber. A sixth driver, Sebastien Buemi, took fifth place.

In MotoGP, the WRC and F1 drivers voted Valentino Rossi as the best of 2009, while the WRC award went to Mikko Hirvonen.

The season review issue of GPWeek can be viewed for free at GPWeek.com .