Claire Williams made a heartfelt return to the Formula 1 paddock during the British Grand Prix at Silverstone earlier this month, marking a significant moment after the sale of the Williams F1 team in 2020. Her return, part of her evolving role in the sport, included joining Channel 4 as a pundit for their live coverage, reconnecting with the atmosphere of F1 where she spent much of her life.
This visit was more than a brief appearance, as Williams has stayed connected to Formula 1 through various roles, including her presence in the popular Netflix series Drive to Survive and her engagement as an F1 ambassador for Santander, a key sponsor of the team.
Revisiting Memories and Key Moments at Silverstone
Her time at Silverstone gave Claire Williams a chance to revisit familiar faces and places from her F1 career. She shared social media posts featuring photos with Nigel Mansell, the 1992 World Champion, whom she regards as embodying much of what the Williams team means to her. She also spent time in the Williams garage and hospitality area, rekindling connections with her old crew and the race environment.
Reflecting on these moments, she highlighted the warmth of reconnecting with former colleagues and meeting respected media personality Vicki Butler Henderson during an event at the Fusion Lounge.
Before becoming deputy team principal in 2013, Claire served as a press officer for Williams, working notably with Nico Hulkenberg during his debut season in 2010, which included a remarkable pole position at the Brazilian Grand Prix in Interlagos. Her return coincided with Hulkenberg securing his first podium on his 239th race start, a milestone she celebrated warmly.
She expressed her pride, saying congratulations to Hulkenberg and recalling her support from his early career days.
A big thank you to the Williams team and to F1 for looking after us so well.
—Claire Williams
Adapting to Life Away from Williams and Formula 1
In conversations with PlanetF1.com, Claire Williams opened up about the emotional challenges of stepping back from the sport after the team’s sale to Dorilton Capital. The transition from being immersed in Formula 1 to finding a new rhythm has been difficult, as Williams was intertwined with the sport for most of her life.
She described the struggle of no longer being involved with the team daily and how Williams felt like an extension of her family. Despite the sadness, she finds solace in personal life outside racing, enjoying more time with her husband and young son.
Her approach to change is pragmatic, recognizing that when one door closes, another opens, and she embraces the new opportunities this shift has brought.
It’s not easy getting over Formula 1. It gets into your soul. It’s not easy to say goodbye to F1.
—Claire Williams
Claire Williams’ Continued Influence in the F1 Community
Despite stepping back from management, Claire Williams remains a familiar figure in the Formula 1 community through media appearances and ambassador roles. Her insights as a pundit on Channel 4’s British Grand Prix coverage help connect fans to the sport, providing expert analysis grounded in decades of personal experience.
Her involvement in the Netflix Drive to Survive series during the past two seasons has further broadened her presence, introducing her to new audiences and contributing to the growing popularity of Formula 1 worldwide.
Her return to Silverstone showcased her enduring connection to the team and sport that shaped her life, while also highlighting the ongoing transitions for her and the Williams team in the new era under Dorilton Capital’s ownership.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Is number 13 banned in F1?
A. Yes, using number 13 is permitted. Pastor Maldonado selected it when the permanent number system started in 2014. While many people think 13 is unlucky, F1 let drivers decide their own numbers.
Q. Which F1 driver has ADHD?
A. Born in 1985, Lewis Hamilton is a British race car driver in Formula One. He currently races for Mercedes and has previously raced for McLaren. Hamilton openly talks about his experiences with ADHD and shares insights into his various hobbies and interests.
Q. Is 69 allowed in F1?
A. Drivers can pick a permanent number between 0 and 99, but not 1. Only the World Drivers’ Champion can use number 1, if they want to. However, they are not obliged to select it.
Q. Which F1 drivers have ADHD?
A. Lewis Hamilton is a British Formula One driver who races for Mercedes. Born in 1985, he has also raced for McLaren. He openly shares his experiences with ADHD and explores his various hobbies and interests.