Jenson Button’s old Williams FW22 Formula One car is returning to the spotlight at this year’s Donington Historic Festival, running from 2 to 4 May 2025. For fans of classic Formula One, this is a moment worth circling in the diary.
The FW22, chassis number 00, will roar back to life as part of the Historic F1 demonstration runs on the Saturday and Sunday. Six-time Indy 500 competitor James Davison will drive the car, unleashing its ferocious 800+bhp BMW V10 engine. His skill behind the wheel guarantees a performance worth watching – and hearing.
From Rookie Legend to World Champion
The Williams FW22 holds a special place in Formula One history. It marked the start of Jenson Button’s F1 career, making him the youngest British driver to enter the sport at the time. Button made his debut with Williams in 2000. Williams chose him over several more experienced contenders — a clear sign of how highly they rated him, even before he set foot in the paddock.
Though the FW22-00 served mainly as a test car for both Button and Ralf Schumacher, it was instrumental in launching a new chapter for Williams. This was especially with its newly minted BMW engine partnership. The car saw testing action at major circuits like Silverstone, Barcelona, and Jerez.
That debut season was a solid one. Williams BMW finished third in the Constructors’ Championship, with Ralf Schumacher taking fifth in the drivers’ standings. Button’s performance earned him eighth – impressive for a 20-year-old newcomer. He also became the youngest driver at the time to score a World Championship point. This achievement happened at the 2000 Brazilian Grand Prix. Fast forward to 2009, and that same young hopeful was standing at the top of the sport as World Champion.
Be in with a chance of winning a pair of tickets
If you have yet to enter our competition, where you could be in with a chance of grabbing a complimentary pair of tickets to this wonderful motorsport event, do so here. You can see all competitions here, and I suggest you save to your favourites and come back regularly. Signing up to our newsletter and following us on our social media channels also is highly advised.
Packed Weekend of Historic Motorsport
The return of the FW22 is just one of many reasons to visit Donington Historic Festival 2025. This year’s event offers a full schedule of racing action across all three days, with 17 races covering 12 prestigious historic racing grids. Fans can expect everything from pre-war sports cars to classic touring car battles.
Adding to the spectacle are demonstration runs from Formula One and Super Touring cars. This gives visitors a rare chance to see legendary machines in motion, not just behind ropes.
What’s more, for the first time, races will be held on the full Donington Park Grand Prix circuit. This adds a new level of challenge for the drivers and extra excitement for the crowd.
More Than Just Racing
Donington Historic Festival 2025 is built for enthusiasts, families, and day-trippers alike. Alongside the on-track action, visitors can enjoy:
- Open-access paddock and pitlane walks
- A lively trade village
- Sporting Bears charity passenger rides
- Children’s entertainment and activities
- Club displays of hundreds of classic cars from across the decades
- Lunchtime track parades featuring Supercar Driver members and their eye-popping cars
And for something completely different, the skies will come alive with Battle of Britain Memorial Flight flypasts. These will include a daily visit from a Spitfire on both Saturday and Sunday.
A Must-See for F1 and Motorsport Fans
Whether you’re a lifelong Button fan, a lover of 2000s-era Formula One, or someone who simply enjoys the sights and sounds of historic motorsport, Donington Historic Festival 2025 is the place to be.
The rare appearance of the ex-Jenson Button Williams FW22 on track, especially with the BMW V10 at full voice, is sure to be a standout moment in a weekend already packed with highlights.
Are you planning to attend Donington Historic Festival 2025? Which car or era are you most looking forward to seeing? Let us know in the comments.
Please follow and like us: