Founder and emblematic boss of the family team, Frank Williams passed away this Sunday at the age of 79. The Briton’s family announced the sad news through the team, which they no longer own since last year.
“It is with great sadness and on behalf of the Williams family that the team confirms the passing of Sir Frank Williams, founder and former manager of Williams Racing, at the age of 79. After being admitted to hospital on Friday, Sir Frank passed away peacefully this morning surrounded by his loved ones. “
“Today we pay tribute to our beloved and inspirational figurehead. Frank will be sorely missed. We ask all of our friends and colleagues to respect the family’s wish for privacy at this time.”
Born on April 16, 1942, Frank Williams founded in the 1970s, by doing it twice, the stable that still bears his name today. The team he has built has become one of the symbols of the discipline through its longevity and success.
In more than forty years of presence in Formula 1, the structure historically based in Grove has accumulated a number of successes. It is not the delicate period that it has gone through in recent years that can make people forget so quickly the nine titles of World Constructors’ Champion, the seven titles of World Champion pilots, the 114 victories (including 33 doubled), 128 pole positions and 313 podiums … All in 45 seasons and over 750 Grands Prix contested to date.
Victim of a road accident in March 1986, in the south of France while returning from a private practice session on Le Castellet, Frank Williams had been quadriplegic since that date. Despite this fragile health, he did not leave the head of the team, until the last few years, during which he passed the torch on to his daughter, Claire.
The last few seasons have been difficult for Williams F1, sportingly and economically, which has led the family to agree to sell it at the end of summer 2020. For a year and a half, the team has been owned by the fund of Dorilton Capital investment and family members no longer have any decision-making role.
“The Williams Racing team is deeply saddened by the passing of its founder, Sir Frank Williams”, reacted Jost Capito, now manager of the team. “Sir Frank was a legend and an icon of our sport. His passing marks the end of an era for our team and for Formula 1. He was a true pioneer. Despite the considerable adversity encountered in his life, he has led our team to 16 world titles, making them one of the most successful in history. “
“His values, which include integrity, teamwork, a fierce desire for independence and determination, will remain the core team ethic. It is his legacy, just like the Williams family name we proudly run under. . Our hearts go out to the Williams family at this difficult time. “