top of page

Williams Appoints Heritage Director



A former Williams test driver, Jonathan reunites with the team after building and managing his own historic Formula 1 events company where he acquired and restored historic cars.

Stepping into this new role, Jonathan will lead Williams Heritage to connect the team’s rich history – including nine constructors’ world championships, seven drivers’ championships and 114 race wins – with the present.

Williams Heritage was created in 2014 to manage, preserve, and celebrate Williams Racing’s iconic legacy, which spans almost half a century and includes some of the sport’s most impressive machinery. The team maintains a fleet of cars dating from the team’s first Formula 1 season as a constructor in 1978 to cars of this current generation, and supports the running of heritage cars at events such as the Goodwood Festival of Speed.

Jonathan has a personal connection to Williams’ past, having served as test driver in 2008 when Nico Rosberg guided the FW30 to podium finishes in Australia and Singapore. His professional racing career has included competing in the Le Mans 24hrs and GT1 World Championship as well as Historic F1.

Jonathan Kennard, Heritage Director:

"I am honoured to be joining Williams Racing, and it is an immense privilege to lead the Heritage Team. My extensive involvement in racing, both as a driver and in historics, has prepared me well for this role. I look forward to maximising the opportunities within our world-class operation and collection."

Sven Smeets, Sporting Director: “We’re delighted to welcome Jonathan to the Williams Heritage team. His background is very impressive and gives him a unique perspective on how to make the most of our collection. Jonathan’s role will be pivotal in honouring the team’s decorated history, allowing us to take inspiration from the innovation and passion that has defined us throughout the years.”


Most Read

Retired Firefighter Digs Deep For Poppy Appeal With JCB Badge

Retired Firefighter Digs Deep For Poppy Appeal With JCB Badge

A retired Staffordshire firefighter is digging deep for the Poppy Appeal — by launching a JCB-themed badge to raise vital funds.

Shropshire School Nominated For Prestigious ARC Award

Shropshire School Nominated For Prestigious ARC Award

Access School, based at Holbrook Villa Farm, Harmer Hill, Shrewsbury, has been shortlisted for the prestigious Midlands Region ARC Alex Timpson Award in recognition of its work with in helping pupils adapt and learn to their educational setting, particularly those children who may have suffered trauma earlier in their life.

31st Edition Of Big Shots Raises £30,000 For Industry Charity

31st Edition Of Big Shots Raises £30,000 For Industry Charity

The 31st edition of Big Shots, The Furniture Makers’ Company’s annual clay pigeon shooting fundraiser, raised an impressive £30,000 to support people working in the furnishing industry.

Categories

  • Jan 29, 2024
  • 2 min read


A former Williams test driver, Jonathan reunites with the team after building and managing his own historic Formula 1 events company where he acquired and restored historic cars.

Stepping into this new role, Jonathan will lead Williams Heritage to connect the team’s rich history – including nine constructors’ world championships, seven drivers’ championships and 114 race wins – with the present.

Williams Heritage was created in 2014 to manage, preserve, and celebrate Williams Racing’s iconic legacy, which spans almost half a century and includes some of the sport’s most impressive machinery. The team maintains a fleet of cars dating from the team’s first Formula 1 season as a constructor in 1978 to cars of this current generation, and supports the running of heritage cars at events such as the Goodwood Festival of Speed.

Jonathan has a personal connection to Williams’ past, having served as test driver in 2008 when Nico Rosberg guided the FW30 to podium finishes in Australia and Singapore. His professional racing career has included competing in the Le Mans 24hrs and GT1 World Championship as well as Historic F1.

Jonathan Kennard, Heritage Director:

"I am honoured to be joining Williams Racing, and it is an immense privilege to lead the Heritage Team. My extensive involvement in racing, both as a driver and in historics, has prepared me well for this role. I look forward to maximising the opportunities within our world-class operation and collection."

Sven Smeets, Sporting Director: “We’re delighted to welcome Jonathan to the Williams Heritage team. His background is very impressive and gives him a unique perspective on how to make the most of our collection. Jonathan’s role will be pivotal in honouring the team’s decorated history, allowing us to take inspiration from the innovation and passion that has defined us throughout the years.”


Most Read

Retired Firefighter Digs Deep For Poppy Appeal With JCB Badge

Retired Firefighter Digs Deep For Poppy Appeal With JCB Badge

A retired Staffordshire firefighter is digging deep for the Poppy Appeal — by launching a JCB-themed badge to raise vital funds.

Shropshire School Nominated For Prestigious ARC Award

Shropshire School Nominated For Prestigious ARC Award

Access School, based at Holbrook Villa Farm, Harmer Hill, Shrewsbury, has been shortlisted for the prestigious Midlands Region ARC Alex Timpson Award in recognition of its work with in helping pupils adapt and learn to their educational setting, particularly those children who may have suffered trauma earlier in their life.

31st Edition Of Big Shots Raises £30,000 For Industry Charity

31st Edition Of Big Shots Raises £30,000 For Industry Charity

The 31st edition of Big Shots, The Furniture Makers’ Company’s annual clay pigeon shooting fundraiser, raised an impressive £30,000 to support people working in the furnishing industry.

Categories

Roundtable Gives Charity Bosses Chance To Discuss New Fundraising Rules

Roundtable Gives Charity Bosses Chance To Discuss New Fundraising Rules

Charity leaders met in Southampton for a roundtable discussion on challenges and opportunities facing third sector organisations.

Edinburgh Football Fashion Brand Targets Growth

Edinburgh Football Fashion Brand Targets Growth

Edinburgh-based football apparel brand Universal Language has credited Business Gateway support with reshaping its commercial foundations as it prepares for its busiest period of trading since launching in December 2024.

St Austell Brewery Charity Golf Day Raises £10,000

St Austell Brewery Charity Golf Day Raises £10,000

St Austell Brewery has raised £10,000 following a successful charity golf day attended by customers, suppliers and partners from across the South West.

Recent Posts

bottom of page