Karun Chandhok Appointed As Williams' Heritage Driver

Williams -- a major Formula One team, has appointed the veteran race car driver Karun Chandhok as its official heritage driver. He will be in charge of testing and public demonstration of Williams’ historic racing cars.

Making his first appearance as a Williams Heritage Driver at the Goodwood Festival of Speed, Karun will drive the FW08C (1983) and the FW13B (1990). The festival will take place from 23-26 June, where the Indian driver will drive-up the iconic Goodwood Hill.

Williams made its Formula One debut back in 1977 and its Heritage Division was created to preserve, maintain and manage the team’s collection of its historic F1 cars. The team has these exotic cars up for exhibition throughout the year. The heritage division also identifies and prepares a selection of cars for private sales.

This division has one of the finest reserves of competition cars with an impeccable pedigree. Its Heritage Programme allows enthusiasts and investors to own these cars. Karun will also play an active part in coaching the customers who have or will in future purchase cars from Williams Heritage.

“Williams is such an iconic British team, steeped in racing history so it’s a real honour to be involved in its Heritage Programme,” Karun commented on his appointment. “So many of the Williams Heritage cars are pieces of racing history with great stories to tell, so to be offered the chance to get-up close and personal and drive them – sometimes being the first person to do so in decades -- is an incredible opportunity. I look forward to not only demonstrating the cars from time to time, but working with other Williams’ car owners to help them fully enjoy their experience of driving these pieces of F1 history,” he added.

Jonathan Williams, Williams heritage director, stated “With a wealth of experience in a wide range of championships, including Formula One, GT, LMP1 and Formula E, Karun was the ideal candidate to be our heritage driver. What’s more, he has a real passion for motorsport history and is a font of knowledge when it comes to Formula One. The Goodwood Festival of Speed is a highlight of the motorsport calendar, always providing fans with a truly impressive collection of modern and historic cars. We are very much looking forward to taking part in the event once more.”