Damon Hill and TWR Arrows

So, Damon Hill, the likely 1996 World Champion, is moving to TWR Arrows, definately one of the current 'also rans' of Formula 1. Is this a wise move? On the face of it, it certainly seems to be a brave one.

Looking into the move a little deeper however, it can be seen to make some sense. Tom Walkinshaw certainly appears to have what it takes to take a poorly performing motor racing team and turn it into a winning one. He is reputed to be responsible for the turnarounds at Benetton and Ligier for example. Some may say that since taking over at Arrows during this season, he hasn't really made any progress. However, it should be remembered that he only became involved with the team mid-season, and so it would be difficult to make much of a difference this year.

However, with a new engine deal, the breaking of the monopoly on tyre supply in Formula 1 by Good Year, and the teams newly built facilities, one can reasonably expect more from the Arrows team next year.

Also, it is worth remembering that before his entry into the Williams team proper, Damon Hill was the team's test driver, and is said to have been to a large extent responsible for the success of the Williams cars over recent years. It takes a certain type of driver to be able to drive a car under development and be able to pass comments on its performance which can help the designers to modify and improve the car. Damon Hill is said to be that type of driver.

From a purely mercenary point of view, Damon could be accused of simply heading for the biggest money deal he could find, and the fact that his contract with Arrows is only for one year could also point to this being a possible reason for the move. It is also worth considering that Damon really cannot lose as a result of the move. If he performs badly next season it can be blamed on a team which is still not ready for the top flight in Formula 1, and if he performs well, then he can take a certain amount of credit for the improvements in the teams success (some may notice a parallel here with the situation when Michael Schumacher moved to Ferrari).

So, has Damon really blown it, or can we expect great things from him next year? I hope it is the latter, but only time will tell.

Last updated: 09 January 2001