Williams to Celebrate Damon Hill’s 1996 Title at Goodwood 2026

Core summary Williams will be a major presence at the 2026 Goodwood Festival of Speed, with team principal James Vowles, former world champion Damon Hill, reserve driver Luke Browning and W Series champion Jamie Chadwick on the roster. Hill will take his 1996 FW18 back up the hillclimb, marking the 30‑year anniversary of his title, while the team showcases its heritage alongside its future talent.

Why it matters:

Williams’ participation ties the team’s storied past to its current rebuilding phase. Featuring a living champion in Hill and rising stars like Browning and Chadwick underscores the brand’s commitment to honoring its legacy while promoting the next generation of drivers.

The details:

• James Vowles, team principal, will lead the Williams delegation at Goodwood from 9‑12 July 2026.
• Damon Hill returns to the iconic hillclimb in his championship‑winning FW18, the car that secured his 1996 Drivers’ title.
• Hill will be honoured on the Goodwood House balcony, celebrating three decades since his world championship.
• Reserve driver Luke Browning and three‑time W Series champion Jamie Chadwick will join Hill on‑stage and in fan engagements.
• The Duke of Richmond highlighted Williams’ long‑standing relationship with Goodwood, noting the team’s first appearance in 1994 and its role in the festival’s history.
• Williams Heritage will handle the restoration and preparation of the FW18 for the event.

What's next:

The Goodwood showcase gives Williams a high‑visibility platform ahead of the 2026 season, allowing the team to connect with fans, attract sponsors and reinforce its heritage narrative. With Vowles steering the technical direction and new talent gaining exposure, the event could serve as a springboard for Williams’ resurgence on the modern grid.