F1 champion Button escapes unhurt in Sao Paulo armed car attack

BRASILIA - Formula One world champion Jenson Button has escaped unhurt from an attempted armed attack as he was driven away from the Brazilian Grand Prix circuit in Sao Paulo on Saturday, according to his McLaren racing team.

“Would-be assailants made an attempt to approach the car that was carrying Jenson Button” on Saturday, BBC quoted McLaren, as saying in a statement.

“The police driver of Jenson’s vehicle reacted swiftly and, using avoidance techniques, rapidly forced his way through the traffic, taking Jenson and the other occupants of the car immediately away from any danger and back to their hotel,” it added.

The team also praised the Sao Paulo authorities for acting efficiently, and added that they would provide additional security” to Button and other team members on Sunday.

Brazil’s major cities have a bad record for serious crimes of violence, which have caused concern ahead of major events like the 2014 World Cup. (ANI)