The unmistakable howl of a BMW E41 V10 engine will once again echo through Donington Park this May as the legendary Williams FW22 takes to the track at the 2025 Donington Historic Festival (DHF). This iconic Formula One machine, originally piloted by Jenson Button in his debut F1 season, will be one of the star attractions in the historic F1 car demonstrations on Saturday and Sunday, driven by six-time Indy 500 entrant James Davison.
A Piece of F1 History Returns
The Williams FW22-00, appearing courtesy of Williams Heritage, played a pivotal role in the 2000 Formula One season. Used extensively as a test car by both Jenson Button and Ralf Schumacher, it helped shape the Williams-BMW partnership that would become a dominant force in F1 over the next six years. Button and Schumacher both put the FW22 through its paces at renowned circuits such as Silverstone, Barcelona, Kyalami, and Jerez, laying the groundwork for Williams BMW’s strong start to the millennium.
In its competitive debut season, the Williams BMW team secured third place in the Constructors’ Championship, with Ralf Schumacher finishing fifth in the Drivers’ standings and Button impressing in eighth. At just 20 years old, Button became Britain’s youngest-ever F1 driver, a record previously held by Stirling Moss. He also made history at the Brazilian Grand Prix that year, becoming the youngest driver at the time to score a World Championship point. This momentous start would set the foundation for his 2009 World Championship-winning campaign with Brawn GP.
A Spectacle for Motorsport Enthusiasts
The 2025 Donington Historic Festival promises an unmissable weekend of thrilling track action, featuring 17 races and 12 world-class historic racing grids. Fans can expect a packed schedule of high-speed drama, complemented by demonstration runs from legendary Formula One and Super Touring cars. For the first time in DHF history, racing will take place on the Donington Park GP circuit, elevating the spectacle for both spectators and competitors.
Beyond the track, the festival offers a vibrant experience for families and enthusiasts alike. Highlights include an open-access paddock, pitlane walks, an extensive trade village, and charity passenger rides courtesy of Sporting Bears. Classic car aficionados will delight in the infield displays, showcasing hundreds of cherished vehicles from numerous car clubs. Supercar Driver members will also take to the track for exclusive parades, adding a modern twist to this celebration of automotive heritage.
Sky-High Excitement
As if the on-track action wasn’t enough, the Donington Historic Festival will also feature breathtaking flypasts from the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight on both Saturday and Sunday. Festival-goers can witness the iconic Spitfire soaring overhead, adding a nostalgic tribute to motorsport’s golden era.
Plan Your Visit
Advance tickets for the 2025 Donington Historic Festival are available at exceptional value, with prices starting at just £15 for adult Friday entry and full three-day weekend passes for only £45. Discounts apply for teens aged 13-15, while children under 13 enjoy free entry. For further details and to secure your place at this thrilling motorsport extravaganza, visit www.doningtonhistoric.com.
Don’t miss your chance to witness Jenson Button’s first F1 chariot back in action—join us at Donington Park this May for a weekend of unforgettable racing heritage!
