F1 loses 'heart and soul' with Williams family exit
Sep.8 - Two former F1 figures say the departure of the Williams family from Formula 1 is a poignant moment for the sport.
"A sad moment, a historic exit," former F1 team Minardi's founder Gian Carlo Minardi told La Gazzetta dello Sport.
In recent days, it was announced not only that the Oxfordshire based team had been sold, but that Claire Williams and Sir Frank Williams will have no involvement after last Sunday's Italian GP.
"It was the last bulwark of a Formula 1 past that I also belonged to and which no longer exists," Minardi added. "It is a serious loss for motorsport."
Even closer to Williams in the past was Dr Mario Theissen, who was the BMW boss during the two parties' BMW-Williams collaboration.
He told Bild newspaper: "Formula 1 isn't losing a team, but it is losing some heart and soul.
"With Frank and Claire Williams, the last 'garage team' leaves the stage."
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Frank, Ken, Colin and Ron. The Golden Era. Gone along with most of my interest in F1. Thanks, guys, for the motivation to race cars and idolize the fast guys. Bittersweet.
Agree with @ReallyOldRacer - F1 has now lost its special soul, it's too business-like, gone are the days where a man can dream and do something about it. Williams was my lifelong reference point, I feel like I am in mourning!
Totally agree with you guys. They had an awesome run, and will be sorely missed. Thank you Sir Frank, Claire and the team for much enjoyment over the years! ...the last of a breed
Yep so sad
Enzo Ferrari referred to the Small British Teams as "Garagestes", however I believe he would be sad to see a great opponent gone. Best Wishes to Frank, Claire and Family, they will be missed, but not forgotten.
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