Turkish Grand Prix 2009 - Race Schedule and Countdown

Jenson Button delivered his most impressive performance of the season with a brilliant victory at the Turkish Grand Prix, passing both Red Bulls to win from third on the grid and securing his sixth victory in seven races. The British driver's masterful drive at Istanbul Park - fighting back from losing positions at the start to hunt down and overtake Sebastian Vettel and Mark Webber - showcased the racecraft and determination that would define his championship campaign, though it would prove to be his final victory until the crucial late-season races.

Starting from third behind Vettel's pole position, Button made a sluggish start and dropped positions, facing the prospect of watching the Red Bulls disappear into the distance. But the Brawn driver refused to accept defeat, producing a stunning recovery drive that saw him carve through the field with aggressive overtaking and superior tire management. Button's pass on Vettel for the lead through Istanbul Park's spectacular Turn 8 - one of F1's greatest corners - was a defining moment, demonstrating that he possessed not just pace but the fighting spirit of a true champion. His victory came despite Red Bull appearing to have the faster car, proving that Button could win even when Brawn wasn't dominant.

Webber finished second after a strong race, with Vettel completing the podium in third for Red Bull, though both drivers were left to rue what might have been after seeming to have the race under control. The result extended Button's championship lead to 32 points - seemingly insurmountable with ten races remaining. However, this race marked a turning point - it would be Button's last victory until Valencia in August, as Red Bull's relentless development finally gave them a consistent pace advantage. Brawn's limited budget meant they couldn't match Red Bull's upgrade rate, and the second half of the season would see Button defending his lead rather than extending it. The Turkish GP represented the zenith of Button's 2009 brilliance - afterwards, survival would replace domination.