05/01/2013
NEWS STORY
Mat Coch writes:
Formula One could see a third-generation world champion in years to come according to Damon Hill. The 1996 world champion believes his son Josh, the grandson of double-world champion Graham, could race in Formula One after showing early promise in his own motor racing career.
"I can honestly say Josh has the potential to get to the very top," Hill told the Evening Standard. "I wouldn't say that if I didn't believe it. He still has a lot to learn but he's quite a formidable driver.
"As a racing driver, you either have it or you don't, and he's amazing to watch," he added.
Damon became the sport's first second-generation world champion, emulating his father's exploits in claiming his own title in 1996. However, despite Damon's own success, motorsport was not pushed on Josh, or even encouraged.
"When I was racing, I didn't really want the kids exposed to motorsport," he said. "I was in the F1 paddock from a very young age and I grew up in a very gruesome time in F1 when there were quite a lot of deaths.
"The reality is that motorsport is still dangerous. But I wouldn't want to deny any of my children the chance of discovering or learning about risk. Life is a risk and you have to learn to be aware of the risks. If you're not prepared for the risks, that's more dangerous.
"Josh has the potential to be a third generation world champion," he continued. "I'm not sure if the Hill name helps or hinders in terms of getting acceptance. I think it can make life harder to prove yourself."
Meanwhile 21-year-old Josh, who raced Formula Renault in 2012, is taking it all in his stride. "I don't feel the pressure," he claimed. "I merely dipped my toe in the water and had something there. I like to think I've moved up on merit.
"I feel I proved myself with my results last season and it's great to have dad - looking over my shoulder… most of the time."