

1980 Alan Jones (Australia) - Williams Ford Cosworth
1982 Keke Rosberg (Finland) - Williams Ford Cosworth
1987 Nelson Piquet (Brazil) - Williams Honda
1992 Nigel Mansell (GB) - Williams Renault
1993 Alain Prost (France) - Williams Renault
1996 Damon Hill (GB) - Williams Renault
1997 Jacques Villeneuve (Canada) - Williams Renault
It is interesting to note that both Nigel Mansell and Alain Prost both left Williams after gaining their Championship, and Damon Hill was told by Williams that his contract would not be renewed for 1997, even though he had a clear lead in the 1996 World Championship points and was to take the Championship. Jacques Villeneuve in his second year in F1 took over as lead driver from Hill and gained the 1997 Drivers Championship, but left in 1999 to join the BAR team. Alex Zanardi who joined the Williams team as double holder of thee CART Drivers' Championship had his contract terminated after one disappointing season. Frank Williams is at times prepared to make controversial decisions concerning his drivers' contracts and seems to be determined to retain control of his team and not give in to 'Driver power' demands for more money and status.