Damon Hill to Step Down from BRDC

Hill at Silverstone

Damon Hill is to step down as president of the British Racing Drivers' Club in August, after five years in office.

The former Formula 1 world champion has played a pivotal role in overseeing one of the most successful periods in the BRDC's history.

It has included securing a 17-year deal for Silverstone to host F1, and the British rounds of the Superbike World Championship and Moto GP.

"It has been a great privilege to serve as BRDC President," said Hill.

"As a club and business, we can be immensely proud of everything we have achieved for British motor sport over the past few years," he said.

"The BRDC and Silverstone face a stable and exciting future, so the timing is right for me to hand over the reins and devote more time to my family, my own interests and the racing career of our son, Josh.

"I remain a committed member of the BRDC and look forward to watching the club go from strength to strength."

Silverstone has also undergone significant revisions, which has included a revised circuit lay-out and the opening last month of a new £27m pit and paddock complex.

BRDC chairman Stuart Rolt praised Hill for the work he has conducted on behalf of both the club and Silverstone over the years.

"I cannot speak highly enough of the superb work Damon has carried out since his appointment as BRDC president," said Rolt.

"We owe him an immense debt of gratitude for the commitment and energy he has put into being the public face of the Club, and therefore Silverstone, at times of uncertainty and then great optimism.

Existing BRDC director Derek Warwick, who competed in 147 grands prix between 1981 and 1993 for Toleman, Renault, Brabham, Arrows, Lotus and Footwork will stand as a candidate to replace Hill.