Sunday 13th December 1992
Nigel Mansell was named the BBC’s Sports Personality of the Year on the back of winning the drivers’ championship. While Mansell was receiving his award, Williams announced his place would be taken by Damon Hill , the relatively unknown son of former champion Graham . Hill finally convinced Williams he was the right man for the job after a brilliant testing session in Portugal where he outpaced Alain Prost . “I understand why people will see this as a controversial choice,” Hill said. “It is a very brave decision from the Williams team. But I know motor racing, if not Formula One, and I know the car very well indeed. I’ve always been told how my father did this or that. I have always put him on a large pedestal. I am very proud to be in a competitive car in Formula One. I feel fulfilled to some degree.”