One of the most iconic Formula 1 cars in British motorsport history will return to the scene of its greatest triumph, at the London Historic Trophy, from 19 to 21 June. The Williams-Honda FW11 is heading back to Brands Hatch, where it claimed victory in the hands of Nigel Mansell 40 years ago, in 1986.

This actual car, driven by Mansell to cross the line and take victory in the final Formula 1 British Grand Prix ever held at Brands Hatch, has become one of the most significant and defining race cars of Formula 1’s turbo era. After disappearing from public view for decades, this FW11 was rediscovered following years of research and an extraordinary chance encounter.

One of the Most Emotional Races in History

On 13 July 1986, in front of a record British Grand Prix crowd estimated at more than 150,000 spectators, Mansell delivered the drive that cemented him as Britain’s sporting hero. Driving Nelson Piquet’s spare chassis from second on the grid and without a functioning drinks bottle, Mansell delivered the drive of his life. In the sweltering heat, he fought off the relentless pressure from Ayrton Senna and Keke Rosberg as well as his teammate, Nelson Piquet, and fiercest rival to claim his first ever home Grand Prix victory.

This race marked the final Formula 1 World Championship Grand Prix held at Brands Hatch, while also being Frank Williams’ first appearance at a race weekend following the life-changing road accident earlier that year. In an historic moment, Frank’s wife Virginia Williams became the first woman ever to collect a Formula 1 Constructors’ Trophy on behalf of the team.

The FW11 also represents the absolute peak of Formula 1’s first turbocharged era and the FW11s dominance. 1986 was the final season before turbo boost restrictions were introduced, with qualifying power figures rumoured to exceed 1,400bhp from Honda’s V6 turbo engine in a chassis weighing little more than 540kg. No power steering, no driver aids, and a manual H-pattern gearbox demanded extraordinary bravery and physicality from the drivers.

Back Home at the London Historic Trophy

Forty years after his historic victory, the FW11 returns to Brands Hatch allowing fans to once again witness the actual car that carried Nigel Mansell across the line to one of the most unforgettable wins in British motorsport history. The Williams Honda FW11 will be on static display in the Pits which is open to all spectators.

Images: Duncan Hamilton ROFGO / Honda Motor Co / Williams Racing