Hill returns to Williams in ambassador role in title anniversary year

Thirty years after conquering the Formula 1 world title with Williams, Damon Hill is heading home.

In a move heavy with nostalgia and ambition, the British outfit has reunited with its 1996 world champion, appointing Hill as an Official Ambassador in the anniversary year of his supreme triumph.

It marks the rekindling of one of the most celebrated partnerships of the 1990s – and a symbolic nod to a future the Williams is in the process of rebuilding.

Back to Where It All Happened

Hill’s journey with Williams is the stuff of cinema. From a humble test driver to a 21-time Grand Prix winner, his mid-90s run was the heartbeat of a golden era.

Whether it was the gut-wrenching heartbreak against Michael Schumacher of Adelaide in 1994 or the rain-soaked redemption of Suzuka in 1996, Hill’s grit became synonymous with the Williams spirit.

Now, he steps into a refined role, filling the vacancy left by Jenson Button’s move to Aston Martin. Hill joins a heavy-hitting ambassadorial roster that includes his former teammate and 1997 world champion Jacques Villeneuve, along with three-time W Series champion Jamie Chadwick.

Reflecting on his homecoming, the son of the legendary Graham Hill was clearly moved by the reunion.

"Williams is truly a special place for me and where some of the defining moments of my career took place,” said the Briton.

“I feel incredibly lucky to have been part of this sport and to have achieved what I did, and returning as an Ambassador is a real privilege. It’s an opportunity to celebrate the team's history and help to support its legacy and future."

Bridging the Past and the Future

For Team Principal James Vowles, bringing Hill back isn't just a nod to nostalgia; it’s a strategic move to infuse the team’s modern "Atlassian Williams F1 Team" identity with the DNA of a winner.

As the team continues its climb back toward the front of the grid in 2026, Vowles views Hill as the perfect personification of the brand’s resilience.

Vowles underscored the gravity of the appointment, stating:

"It’s an honour to welcome Damon back to Atlassian Williams F1 Team as an Ambassador. Few individuals represent this team quite like him.

“Damon played a defining role in one of the most successful eras in our history, becoming a World Champion with Williams and leaving a legacy that continues to inspire the team today.

“We’re also delighted that Jamie Chadwick and Jacques Villeneuve will continue with us as Ambassadors.

“Together, they form an impressive line-up that reflects everything Williams stands for: our history, our commitment to opening doors and developing talent, and our ambition to compete at the very highest level again.

“Having figures like them representing Williams as we move forward is something we’re immensely proud of."

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With Chadwick also sticking around to mentor F1 Academy newcomer Jade Jacquet, the Williams garage is suddenly looking like a masterclass in racing pedigree.

For fans who remember the roar of the Renault V10s, seeing Hill back in Williams kit will feel like the final piece of a very prestigious puzzle.

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