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Jenson Button awarded MBE

Jenson Button poses with his MBE © Getty Images

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Fresh from his second place in Sunday's Turkish Grand Prix, Jenson Button took a break from his schedule to receive an MBE at Buckingham Palace on Wednesday.

After being honoured by the Queen, the reigning world champion reflected on a memorable 18 months.

"The last 18 months have been an incredible period in my life," said Button. "Starting last year facing almost impossible odds, I achieved my childhood dream of winning the Formula One World Championship and I'm now driving for one of the greatest teams in the sport. To also be recognised by Her Majesty the Queen and the British people is the greatest honour I could possibly imagine.

"My whole life in motorsport has been an incredible journey. When I started karting as an eight-year-old boy, I could only dream of racing in Formula One, or becoming world champion. Even now, those dreams still feel unbelievable and fantastic to me."

Button, who lies second in the championship only five points behind Mark Webber, said that being awarded the MBE was one of the proudest moments of his life.

"To visit Buckingham Palace today is another huge step along that journey. To be awarded the MBE by Her Majesty the Queen is a very great honour for me, and a significant milestone in my life.

"Today makes me incredibly proud to be British, and to be able represent my country on the world stage. Being Formula One World Champion, and receiving the MBE today, carries with it great responsibility that I am proud to take on and uphold."

© ESPN Sports Media Ltd.