Winner of 15 grands prix and a podium finisher on 50 occasions, Button won his title while racing for the new Brawn GP team in 2009, but moved to McLaren the following year as team-mate to Lewis Hamilton, who has starred in two major events at Bushy Park, Top Gear Festival Barbados 2014 and last year’s BFoS. Button retired from F1 at the end of last season, but remains a McLaren-Honda Ambassador, and on the team’s reserve list; he will stand in for Fernando Alonso at the Monaco GP (May 28), when the Spaniard makes his debut in the Indianapolis 500.

In a recorded message, Button said: “I’m excited to announce that I’m going to be in Barbados for the 2017 Barbados Festival of Speed on October 14. I’m really looking forward to some fun driving challenges and I can’t wait to see you all. It’s going to an amazing event. Cheers!”

Saturday, October 14 2.00pm to 10.00pm (gates and ticket booths open 12.30pm)

General Admission – Bds $50; Child (7 to 12) Bds $25. Clubhouse (food and drink on sale) – Bds $150; Child (7 to 12) Bds $75. VIP (food and drink included) – Bds $500; Child (7 to 12) Bds $250. Corporate – Bds $100; Child (7 to 12) Bds $50. Children six and under are free. Hilti Hammer 4 x 4 Zone vehicle pass Bds $100, Cyclone 4 x 4 Zone vehicle pass Bds $100, plus General Admission pass for each occupant.