Claire, 47, has been navigating life outside the fast-paced world of Formula One (F1) for nearly three years. This chapter began after the sale of the Williams Racing Team—in 2020—to American investment firm Dorilton Capital for £136 million. Claire, who had acted as the de facto team leader, bid farewell during the Italian Grand Prix that year. Her father, the iconic Sir Frank Williams, passed away just a year later. Reflecting on her departure in an interview with the PA news agency before Williams’ historic 800th race at the Hungarian Grand Prix, Claire shared, “When I left in Monza it felt like someone cut my heart out and it has never been returned.” She admitted that filling the void Formula One left behind has been an immense personal challenge.
Sir Frank Williams’ story is legendary in motorsport circles. Transforming an empty carpet warehouse into a racing powerhouse, Frank’s leadership led to 114 F1 victories, 16 world championship titles, and his distinction as the sport’s longest-serving team boss. Following a devastating car accident, he became the world’s oldest surviving tetraplegic—a testament to his unrelenting spirit. Frank entrusted the reins to Claire in 2013, during which she achieved impressive successes, including two consecutive third-place finishes in the constructors’ championship, trailing only Mercedes and Ferrari. However, limited investment gradually led to a decline, and it’s now been a decade since a Williams driver secured a race victory.
Recalling the turbulent closing years of her leadership, Claire remarked, “There was so much that went on in those last few years, which to this day I will never be able to talk about.” Still, she is proud of having protected the team’s integrity, saved jobs, and avoided financial collapse. After selling Williams Racing, her priority shifted to caring for her father. When the house next door became available, she moved Sir Frank in, dedicating herself to ensuring his comfort and well-being. Claire managed his care team, allowing them valuable time together before his health deteriorated. He passed away in 2021.
Since then, Claire has sought to rebuild her life, finding peace through activities such as organizing a touching memorial service, renovating her family’s homes, and dedicating herself to the Frank Williams Academy, which she launched earlier this year. The academy aims to raise £1.5 million to provide education and training opportunities for those affected by spinal cord injuries, an effort she leads passionately in memory of her father. Those interested in supporting similar causes can explore local support groups and services.
Despite her efforts to move on, Claire admits it’s difficult to stay away from F1 completely. Watching races brings back an overwhelming sense of loss, and she has largely avoided tuning in. Even so, she remains engaged with the industry in different capacities, such as her role as a brand ambassador for Williams Advanced Engineering and through speaking engagements. She has also delved into undisclosed TV projects. Though Sky offered her an opportunity to return as a paddock pundit, Claire felt it was too soon.
Reflecting on her journey, Claire recognizes the deep emotional grip that F1 holds over its participants. Even after stepping away, she acknowledges the difficulty of letting go. Yet, she remains optimistic, finding joy in other parts of her life. While she says she has no immediate plans to return, she remains open to the possibility of rejoining the sport in the future—especially if the prospect of leading Williams Racing ever arose again.
For those in Wantage who draw inspiration from Claire’s story or wish to pursue their own ambitions, check out opportunities to connect with local groups in clubs and societies, or explore business networking events to develop your passions.
