Formula 1 will "never forget the legacy" of Sir Frank Williams

Former Williams deputy team principal Claire Williams believes Formula 1 will "never forget the legacy" of Sir Frank Williams.

The Williams family left F1 behind after the Italian Grand Prix in September, bringing an end to a 43-year association with the sport.

Speaking to Formula1.com, Williams said her father, to whom she claims F1 was "like oxygen", is her "hero".

“Maybe I’m a little biased but following the messages I’ve received after we released the news, I know that Frank touched the heart of many people," she said.

"Not just those people who have worked for him in the paddock, who work for him now at Williams but the fans around the world.

“He really is an inspirational character, coming from nothing to build this great team but also himself, he’s been through some very difficult times in F1, losing drivers and the car accident he had.

"But Frank’s passion has always been his team, it’s always been about going racing, whatever that might be – at the front or the back – he just loves it.

“He has always said F1 is like oxygen, it fixes you and I think for so many of us in the paddock, that is true. He really is and always has been my hero and I know people will never forget the legacy he leaves behind and what he contributed to this sport over so many years.”

Although pleased to have secured the future of the team with new owners Dorilton Capital, Williams says she and her family need time to "grieve".

She added: “We’re very happy the new owners believe so strongly in the heritage of this team, and respect the name.

“It is a reason why we chose them to be the new owners, they are going to continue that – the team will carry the Williams name going forward into the future and that’s wonderful, but I think for us, we probably need a little time to get over this. It feels like grieving for us.

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