Damon Hill makes emotional Williams return with “the place I belong” message

The Albert Park Circuit noticed the nostalgic reunion of 1996 System 1 world champion Damon Hill and the Williams staff because the season opened with the Australian Grand Prix final weekend.

Taking to social media on Tuesday, the British racing legend shared pictures of himself stood exterior beside the Williams paddock constructing, decked out within the Grove staff’s attire and smiling from ear to ear.

Hill is strongly linked to probably the most profitable groups in F1 historical past. After becoming a member of F1 in a full-time seat in 1993, he secured 21 race wins for the Sir Frank Williams-led squad. This got here to a peak in 1996 when he received the championship within the now-famous FW18.

That is the start of Hill’s new function with the Williams staff as he turns into an official ambassador for the outfit this yr, coinciding with the thirtieth anniversary of his title-winning marketing campaign. Whereas Jenson Button leaves as an envoy to go to Silverstone’s Aston Martin, Hill now sits alongside a roster that features the 1997 world champion – and former team-mate – Jacques Villeneuve in addition to W Sequence champion Jamie Chadwick.

Below the management of staff principal James Vowles, Williams is keen to take advantage of the beginning of the brand new laws this yr. However with its deal with the trendy world of Overtake Modes and increase buttons, it is protecting one foot firmly up to now because it leans on its wealthy heritage.

Carlos Sainz, Williams

Picture by: Sam Bloxham / LAT Photographs through Getty Photographs

“Williams is really a particular place for me and the place a number of the defining moments of my profession happened,” Hill stated when his function was confirmed. “I really feel extremely fortunate to have been a part of this sport and to have achieved what I did, and returning as an Ambassador is an actual privilege. It’s a possibility to have fun the staff’s historical past and assist to assist its legacy and future.”

Vowles welcomed him again with open arms.

“It’s an honour to welcome Damon again to Atlassian Williams F1 Crew as an Ambassador,” he stated. “Few people signify this staff fairly like him. Damon performed a defining function in probably the most profitable eras in our historical past, turning into a World Champion with Williams and leaving a legacy that continues to encourage the staff right this moment.

“We’re additionally delighted that Jamie Chadwick and Jacques Villeneuve will proceed with us as Ambassadors. Collectively, they kind a formidable line-up that displays every little thing Williams stands for: our historical past, our dedication to opening doorways and creating expertise, and our ambition to compete on the very highest stage once more. Having figures like them representing Williams as we transfer ahead is one thing we’re immensely pleased with.”

Pictures from Chinese language GP – Thursday

Lewis Hamilton, Ferrari