Williams has announced that 1996 Formula 1 World Champion Damon Hill is returning to the Grove-based squad as an ambassador, marking a symbolic reunion in the 30th anniversary year of his title triumph.
Hill joins an already impressive ambassadorial roster that includes 1997 World Champion Jacques Villeneuve and three-time W Series champion Jamie Chadwick.
Hill remains one of the most recognisable and influential figures in British motorsport, having played a central role in one of the most successful eras in Williams’ history. After two seasons as the team’s test and reserve driver, he was promoted to a race seat in 1993, taking his maiden Grand Prix victory in Hungary that same year.
He went on to lead Williams to the Constructors’ Championship in 1994 and narrowly missed out on the Drivers’ title following the infamous final-race collision with Michael Schumacher in Adelaide.
His crowning achievement came in 1996, when he secured eight victories and clinched the Drivers’ Championship with an emotional win at the Japanese Grand Prix. In total, Hill claimed 21 Grand Prix victories, 20 pole positions, and 19 fastest laps during his four seasons with Williams, becoming a beloved figure among British sports fans and twice earning the BBC Sports Personality of the Year award.
Reflecting on his return, Hill said: “Williams is truly a special place for me and where some of the defining moments of my career took place. 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.”
Hill joins a strengthened ambassadorial team for 2026. Jacques Villeneuve, Hill’s former teammate and successor as World Champion in 1997, returns for a second season in the role. Jamie Chadwick, one of the most decorated female racing drivers in the world, also continues as an Ambassador.
2026 just got even more exciting 🤩
Our Team Ambassador line-up is locked in 🔐 pic.twitter.com/bMVh5NqPco
— Atlassian Williams F1 Team (@WilliamsF1) February 23, 2026
In addition to her duties, Chadwick will serve as an adviser to Williams’ newest F1 Academy recruit, Jade Jacquet, supporting her development as she embarks on her first season in the series.
Team Principal James Vowles welcomed Hill’s return, emphasising the significance of his legacy within the team: “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.”