Button collects trophy at FIA Gala

The annual event saw the champions from all the FIA categories officially presented with their awards.

Among the most notable presentations were Sebastien Loeb and co-driver Daniel Elena picking up World Rally Championship honours for the sixth successive year, and Andy Soucek becoming the first champion of the new Formula 2 era.

Button was delighted to officially assume the world champion title he had earned at the Brazilian Grand Prix in October.

"I am honoured to be here in Monaco this evening to collect the drivers' championship trophy and to see my name engraved alongside the famous racing legends of the past," he said.

"Motor racing has been a part of my life since my father bought my first go-kart at the age of eight and to have achieved my dream of becoming world champion makes me incredibly proud."

Brawn GP team boss Ross Brawn found collecting the constructors' title trophy a profound experience given that a year ago his squad's future had been uncertain following Honda's exit.

"This has been an incredible year for Brawn GP," Brawn said. "To live the trauma of the winter months and make it to the grid for the first race and then to achieve eight grand prix victories and the constructors' and drivers' championships in our first year was inconceivable before the season started.

"On behalf of the team, it is a great honour to receive the constructors' championship trophy this evening and I look forward to taking the trophy back to Brackley to share with our team."