Damon Hill Makes Emotional Williams Return With “where I Belong” Message

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

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

“Great to be back where I belong,” he posted to his followers on X. “Thanks @WilliamsF1 for the welcome home.”

Hill is strongly linked to one of the vital 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.

This is the start of Hill’s new position with the Williams group as he turns into an official ambassador for the outfit this 12 months, coinciding with the thirtieth anniversary of his title-winning marketing campaign. While 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 Series champion Jamie Chadwick.

Under the management of group principal James Vowles, Williams is raring to benefit from the beginning of the brand new rules this 12 months. But with its give attention to the trendy world of Overtake Modes and increase buttons, it is maintaining one foot firmly previously because it leans on its wealthy heritage.

Carlos Sainz, Williams

Photo by: Sam Bloxham / LAT Images by way of Getty Images

“Williams is truly a special place for me and where some of the defining moments of my career took place,” Hill said when his role was confirmed. “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.”

Vowles welcomed him again with open arms.

“It’s an honour to welcome Damon again to Atlassian Williams F1 Team as an Ambassador,” he said. “Few people characterize this group fairly like him. Damon performed a defining position in one of the vital profitable eras in our historical past, changing into a World Champion with Williams and leaving a legacy that continues to encourage the group at the moment.

“We’re additionally delighted that Jamie Chadwick and Jacques Villeneuve will proceed with us as Ambassadors. Together, they kind a powerful line-up that displays every thing Williams stands for: our historical past, our dedication to opening doorways and growing 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.”