Jacques Villeneuve Returns to Williams as Ambassador Ahead of the 2025 F1 Season
Williams Racing has officially announced that Jacques Villeneuve, the 1997 Formula 1 World Champion, will rejoin the team as an ambassador ahead of the 2025 F1 season. This marks a special reunion, as Villeneuve won all 11 of his F1 career victories with Williams between 1996 and 1998, with the pinnacle being his world title triumph in just his second season with the team.
Since retiring from F1 in 2006, Villeneuve has become a sharp and outspoken commentator, known for his candid and often controversial opinions. Speaking about his return, the Canadian racing legend expressed his excitement:
“Williams has been a huge part of my life, filled with incredible memories. I’m thrilled to be back with this family, to help celebrate the team’s history while also supporting its future.”
Jenson Button & Jamie Chadwick Continue Their Roles with Williams
Alongside Villeneuve, Jenson Button – the 2009 F1 World Champion – and Jamie Chadwick – a rising star in motorsport – will continue serving as Williams ambassadors for the 2025 season.
For Button, this marks a milestone moment, as he made his F1 debut with Williams exactly 25 years ago. The former world champion reflected on the significance of this anniversary:
“Williams gave me my first opportunity in F1, and it’s hard to believe I’m now celebrating 25 years since my debut. Being an ambassador for this iconic team is an honor, and I’m excited to continue contributing to its legacy and future.”
Jamie Chadwick, a multiple-time W Series champion and one of the most prominent female racers, also shared her enthusiasm about staying with the team:
“Williams has been a huge part of my motorsport journey for the past four years. I’m proud to continue representing the team in 2025, pushing myself to develop further while also helping to inspire the next generation in the F1 Academy.”
Beyond her ambassadorial role, Chadwick will also mentor Lia Block, the daughter of rally legend Ken Block, as part of Williams’ program for nurturing young female talent in motorsport.
Williams’ Vision for the Future: Blending Tradition with a New Generation
Williams Team Principal James Vowles highlighted the importance of keeping influential figures like Villeneuve, Button, and Chadwick as part of the team’s long-term strategy:
“Having Jenson, Jacques, and Jamie as part of our ambassador lineup for 2025 is a privilege. They embody everything Williams stands for – a rich history of champions, a commitment to driver development, and a passion for pushing boundaries in motorsport.”
“Jenson and Jacques both made their F1 debuts with Williams before becoming world champions, while Jamie has broken barriers in motorsport. We’re honored to have them as part of our journey into this exciting new chapter for the team.”
Williams Enters 2025 with Major Changes
In addition to its ambassadorial lineup, Williams Racing is heading into the 2025 season with a completely new driver pairing: Carlos Sainz and Alex Albon.
Sainz, who left Ferrari to join Williams, is seen as a crucial signing that could help the team climb the midfield ranks. Meanwhile, Albon is expected to lead the team’s development efforts, following his impressive performances in 2023 and 2024.
Moreover, Williams is set to unveil its new FW47 car at Silverstone on Friday. Notably, the team will present the FW47 in a special launch livery, as all F1 teams are banned from revealing their official 2025 designs before the joint unveiling event in London on February 18.
Williams and the 2025 Season: A Defining Moment?
The return of Jacques Villeneuve, alongside Jenson Button and Jamie Chadwick, is more than just a celebration of Williams’ past—it signals the team’s ambition for the future.
With Carlos Sainz and Alex Albon behind the wheel, supported by a team of experienced ambassadors, Williams is heading into 2025 with renewed confidence.
The big question is: Can this be the turning point that propels Williams back to its former glory in Formula 1?
Conclusion: A New-Look Williams, Ready for the Challenge
From a legendary past to a hopeful future, Williams Racing is making bold moves ahead of the 2025 season. The return of Jacques Villeneuve, alongside the continued presence of Jenson Button and Jamie Chadwick, sends a clear message of intent.
With a refreshed driver lineup and a promising FW47, Williams has every reason to believe in a breakthrough season.
Now, the wait begins: Can Williams make history once again in the ultra-competitive world of Formula 1? 🚀🏎️
