Lia Block ‘in shock’ after first seat fit in Nigel Mansell’s iconic FW14B: “It was a dream come true”

Williams Academy and F1 Academy driver Lia Block shared a behind-the-scenes look at her preparations for the 2025 Goodwood Festival of Speed.

Block, Williams' Formula 1 team principal James Vowles, and driver ambassador Jamie Chadwick are all set to drive Nigel Mansell's legendary championship-winning FW14B at this year's event celebrating 75 years of F1.

Commenting on the upcoming opportunity to drive the iconic F1 car, Block said:

“I started going to Goodwood when I was really young with my dad who used to do the hillclimb a lot. Last year was a very big moment for me being able to drive an F1 car up the hill.

"It was a dream come true, and Goodwood is so special to me because so many people from different areas of motorsport come together to celebrate the sport. This year is going to be an iconic experience for me in an iconic car – I can’t wait!”

Since the announcement, the American driver has shared insight into her preparation for the event, including the first seat fit in the FW14B. She posted:

"I think I was [in] shock while doing this. My first seat fit in the FW14B, Nigel Mansell’s championship-winning car. I’m so honored to be driving this car at @fosgoodwood 2025."

Vowles also commented: “It’s fantastic news that Jamie, Lia and I will all be driving the FW14B up the hill at the Goodwood Festival of Speed this year. When you walk around the museum at our base in Grove, the 14B is the car that stands out. This is a dream come true; an iconic car, with such a huge list of success.

Lia Block, ART Grand Prix

Photo by: Zak Mauger / Motorsport Images

"The 14B had technology that was way ahead of its time, and it’s so well known for not only what it achieved but how it took the team forward. Taking it to Goodwood and having the honour of driving it is going to be incredible.”

On top of Vowles, Block, and Chadwick's appearance in the car, Mansell himself will also be present at the event. The 1992 F1 World Champion will also take to the seat of the FW14B as well as the FW11.