Riccardo Patrese Reunites with Williams Racing Legends at Goodwood

At the prestigious Goodwood Festival of Speed held on July 16, 2025, former Formula 1 driver Riccardo Patrese experienced a nostalgic reunion with two iconic Williams Racing cars, the FW14B and FW11. The event marked a celebration of 75 years of Formula 1, attracting many notable figures from the motorsport community.

Patrese, who secured four of his six career victories while driving for Williams in the early 1990s, expressed profound emotions during this reunion. Notably, he achieved his best season in 1992, finishing as runner-up to his teammate Nigel Mansell in the championship. The two drivers had the opportunity to drive the FW14B, the car that contributed significantly to their memorable season. "It was fantastic to rejoin my car of 1992, the 14B, the active car," Patrese stated in an interview with Williams Racing. "It really gave us a fantastic year, dominant – Nigel was World Champion, and I was vice-champion. I won in Suzuka, so at the end, to get in the car again gave me so much satisfaction."

The FW14B, known for its advanced technology, particularly its active suspension system, showcased the peak of engineering excellence in that era. Patrese noted, "It’s a bit complicated because of all the electronics that are involved, but it was working very fine."

In addition to the FW14B, Patrese also had the opportunity to drive the FW11, the first Williams car he piloted. The FW11 was pivotal in securing the Constructors’ Championship in 1986 before evolving into the FW11B, which was the last Honda-powered Williams. After a meticulous restoration by Williams Heritage, the FW11 returned to its original championship-winning specifications. Patrese remarked on the feeling of driving the FW11, saying, "The feeling of the car is fantastic; it’s working perfectly – brand new, I should say!"

This reunion was particularly significant for Patrese, who had not driven the FW11 in 38 years. "This weekend I’ve had many emotional moments because I’ve driven three of the best cars of my career – because of that, I’m very happy," he reflected.

The Goodwood Festival of Speed serves as a vital platform for celebrating the history and innovation within motorsport. It attracts thousands of fans and industry professionals, highlighting the evolution of racing technology and the enduring legacy of iconic teams like Williams. As the festival continues to honor the past, it also establishes connections between generations of racers, allowing figures like Patrese to reminisce about their glory days while inspiring the next wave of motorsport enthusiasts.

In conclusion, Riccardo Patrese's emotional reunion with the FW14B and FW11 encapsulates the enduring spirit of Formula 1, bridging the past and present of an iconic racing team. As Williams Racing navigates its future, these moments serve as a powerful reminder of the legacy built by drivers like Patrese and Mansell, who shaped the team's history and continue to inspire the motorsport community.