Goodwood, UK: Williams F1 Team has unveiled an exciting driver line-up for the Goodwood Festival of Speed 2026, headlined by Formula One legend Damon Hill, who will reunite with his iconic championship-winning FW18 car as part of a special anniversary celebration.

The event will mark 30 years since Hill clinched the 1996 FIA Formula One Drivers’ World Championship, with the British driver set to take centre stage during the festival, including a special honour on the balcony of Goodwood House on July 11.

FW18 Returns: A Championship Icon Reborn

At the heart of Williams’ showcase is the legendary FW18, one of the most dominant cars in Formula One history. The car famously delivered 12 wins from 16 races in the 1996 season, securing both the Drivers’ Championship for Damon Hill and the Constructors’ Championship for Williams.

Hill’s title was sealed in dramatic fashion at the Japanese Grand Prix, cementing his place in F1 history.

The FW18 will return to action at Goodwood following an extensive restoration by Williams Heritage, bringing the car back to its original, period-correct specification for fans to experience its full glory.

Star-Studded Driver Line-Up

Joining Hill at the hillclimb will be James Vowles, who returns to Goodwood after previously driving Nigel Mansell’s FW14B at last year’s event. Vowles will once again get behind the wheel of a historic Williams car, highlighting the team’s rich motorsport legacy.

Rising talent Luke Browning will make his Goodwood hillclimb debut, adding a glimpse of the team’s future to the showcase. Browning currently competes in Japan’s Super Formula series and recently impressed by climbing from P21 to P4 in the opening round, building on a strong 2025 Formula 2 campaign where he finished fourth overall.

Also returning is Jamie Chadwick, Williams ambassador and F1 Academy adviser, who continues to break barriers in motorsport. Since her last Goodwood appearance, Chadwick achieved a historic milestone by becoming the first female driver to secure an outright victory in the European Le Mans Series (ELMS) in the LMP2 category.

Celebrating Motorsport Heritage at Goodwood

The Goodwood Festival of Speed remains one of the most prestigious motorsport events globally, blending modern racing with historic icons. Williams has been a part of the festival since its early years, and its 2026 presence underscores the team’s enduring legacy.

Speaking ahead of the event, James Vowles described Goodwood as a “special celebration of British motorsport,” noting that Hill’s reunion with the FW18 represents a powerful moment connecting the team’s past, present, and future.

Damon Hill also expressed his excitement about returning to the cockpit of the FW18, calling it a “truly amazing” opportunity to relive one of the defining moments of his career alongside fans.

A Historic Moment for Fans

Festival founder Charles Gordon-Lennox highlighted the significance of the occasion, noting that Formula One has been integral to Goodwood since its inception. He emphasized that fans would especially appreciate seeing Hill honoured on the 30th anniversary of his championship win.

What to Expect at Goodwood 2026

With a blend of legendary machinery, iconic drivers, and emerging talent, Williams’ presence at the 2026 Goodwood Festival of Speed promises to be a major highlight. The return of the FW18, combined with Damon Hill’s anniversary celebration, is set to deliver one of the most memorable moments of the event.