The Atlassian Williams F1 Team has announced that 1996 Formula 1 World Champion Damon Hill is returning to the squad as an Official Ambassador, marking the 30th anniversary of his iconic Drivers’ Championship victory.

Hill, one of the most recognisable figures in British motorsport, played a defining role in one of the most successful eras in Williams’ Formula 1 history. His return strengthens the team’s ambassadorial line-up for the 2026 season as it continues to honour its legacy while building for the future.

Damon Hill’s Historic Williams Career

Hill joined Williams as a test and reserve driver before stepping up to a race seat in 1993. That same year, he secured his maiden Grand Prix victory at the Hungarian Grand Prix.

He went on to:

• Help Williams win the 1994 Constructors’ Championship
• Finish runner-up in the 1994 Drivers’ Championship after a dramatic final-race clash with Michael Schumacher
• Claim eight wins in 1996 to secure the Formula 1 Drivers’ Championship
• Seal the 1996 title with an emotional final-race victory in Japan

With that triumph, Hill became the first son of an F1 World Champion to win the Drivers’ Championship, cementing his place in Formula 1 history.

Across four seasons with Williams, Hill achieved:

• 21 Grand Prix victories
• 20 Pole Positions
• 19 Fastest Laps

He was also voted BBC Sports Personality of the Year twice, further solidifying his popularity among British sports fans.

Strong Ambassador Line-Up for 2026

Hill joins an impressive ambassador roster at Williams for 2026.

His former 1996 teammate Jacques Villeneuve, who went on to win the 1997 Drivers’ Championship, returns for a second season as Ambassador.

The line-up is completed by Jamie Chadwick, a three-time W Series champion, Indy NXT race winner and three-time LMP2 race winner. Chadwick will also act as adviser to Williams’ newest F1 Academy recruit, supporting her development during her debut season.

Leadership Reaction

Speaking on his return, Damon Hill said Williams remains a special place in his career, describing his ambassadorial role as an opportunity to celebrate the team’s history while supporting its legacy and future.

Team Principal James Vowles called Hill’s return an honour, highlighting his defining role in one of the most successful periods in Williams’ history. Vowles added that the ambassador group reflects Williams’ heritage, its commitment to nurturing talent, and its ambition to compete at the highest level in Formula 1 once again.

Celebrating 30 Years Since the 1996 F1 Title

Hill’s return comes in a milestone year, three decades after his 1996 championship triumph with Williams. As the team continues its rebuilding phase in modern Formula 1, reconnecting with championship-winning figures underscores its commitment to heritage, excellence and future competitiveness.

With Damon Hill back in the fold alongside Villeneuve and Chadwick, Williams blends history and ambition as it looks to write the next chapter of its Formula 1 story.