F1: Chequered Flag Chequered Flag Extra: Damon Hill Special
5 snips
Aug 7, 2025 Damon Hill, the 1996 F1 World Champion and son of legendary driver Graham Hill, shares his riveting journey through the world of motorsport. He opens up about the profound impact of his father's legacy and how tragedy shaped his career. Delving into his early passion for motorcycles, he recounts his unexpected rise to F1 glory. The conversation touches on the emotional aftermath of the 1994 San Marino Grand Prix, blending triumph and loss. Hill's insights on his new documentary give a personal glimpse into the complexities of racing life.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Hill's Early Racing Preference
- Damon Hill grew up around racing but was more drawn to motorbikes than cars as a child.
- His father was cautious about him entering car racing due to its dangers, not pushing him early on.
Senna's 1994 Tragic Impact
- Damon experienced shock and uncertainty during the 1994 San Marino GP after Ayrton Senna's fatal crash.
- The tragedy deeply affected everyone in F1, prompting a period of reflection about the sport's future.
Struggle for Full Support
- Despite proving competitive, Hill felt Williams did not fully back him until 1996.
- His late start and struggles meant the team sought options beyond him initially.