Prepare for an electrifying blast from the past as Williams Racing unleashes its championship heritage at the 2026 Goodwood Festival of Speed! This summer's premier motorsport spectacle, taking place from July 9-12, will see a star-studded lineup from the Grove-based team, headlined by a legendary reunion that promises to stir the souls of F1 enthusiasts worldwide.
Key Moments at Goodwood 2026:
- Damon Hill to reunite with his iconic 1996 title-winning FW18 on the legendary hillclimb.
- Williams Racing Team Principal James Vowles, reserve driver Luke Browning, and ambassador Jamie Chadwick will all be present.
- The event marks the 30th anniversary of Hill's World Drivers' Championship triumph.
- Goodwood will honor Damon Hill with a special recognition on the Goodwood House balcony.
The Unforgettable Reunion: Hill and His Championship FW18
The centerpiece of Williams Racing's presence is undoubtedly the return of Damon Hill to the cockpit of his beloved FW18. This magnificent machine, which carried Hill to his 1996 Formula 1 World Championship, will once again roar up the iconic Goodwood hillclimb.
“I am delighted and very excited to be reunited with my championship-winning FW18 and Williams who made it all possible at this summer's Festival of Speed,” Hill shared. “To see the car return to Goodwood 30 years later, and to share that moment with the fans, is truly amazing. Thanks to the team at Grove for their work in getting the FW18 back on track. I’m looking forward to getting back behind the wheel!” This emotional comeback is set to be a spine-tingling moment for fans and the team alike.
Williams' All-Star Lineup Takes on the Hill
Beyond the historic car, Williams Racing is bringing a formidable contemporary presence to Goodwood. Team Principal James Vowles will be joined by rising stars Luke Browning, the team's promising reserve driver, and three-time W Series champion and team ambassador Jamie Chadwick. This blend of past champions and future talents perfectly embodies the spirit of Williams.
Vowles expressed his enthusiasm: “Goodwood is an incredibly special event that showcases the best of British motorsport, and it’s an honour to be taking on the hillclimb alongside Damon, Jamie and Luke this year. To see Damon reunited with the FW18 as we mark 30 years since his world drivers’ championship is hugely meaningful for the team and for motorsport fans. Moments like these bring together our past, present and future, and that’s something we’re proud to celebrate.”
Celebrating Three Decades of a Racing Legend
This year's festival holds extra significance as it commemorates the 30th anniversary of Damon Hill's monumental World Drivers' Championship. His achievement in 1996 remains a cornerstone of Williams' storied history, and Goodwood is providing the perfect stage to honor this milestone.
The Duke of Richmond, founder of the Goodwood Festival of Speed, highlighted the deep connection: “Formula 1 has been an essential part of the Festival of Speed since the very early days, and Williams were one of the first teams to appear, way back in 1994. Our fans are passionate about modern F1, but also knowledgeable about the sport’s history, and I know they'll be delighted to see Williams F1 Team across the weekend. It will be fantastic to see James, Jamie and Luke in action, but the most special moment for me will be honouring Damon, on the 30th anniversary of his World Championship.” The Duke also thanked Williams F1 Team - Heritage for their vital role in restoring the FW18 to its former glory.
This highly anticipated appearance underscores Williams Racing's commitment to celebrating its rich legacy while showcasing its current talent. Don't miss this incredible opportunity to witness motorsport history in motion at the 2026 Goodwood Festival of Speed!
