Hill calls it a day

The Jordan driver, who won the Formula One World Championship in 1996, made the announcement following recent speculation regarding his future.

The 38-year-old, who has won 22 races throughout a seven-year F1 career, paid tribute to the sport that made him a household name throughout the world.

'F1 has afforded me many incredible opportunities, and I will cherish some fantastic memories,' he said.

'I have fulfilled my ambitions and consider myself very fortunate to have done so.'

Hill, who was Jordan's first GP winner at Spa last season, also thanked his team, family and his fans.

He said, 'To my loyal fans, you were incredible throughout. An enormous thanks to you all.'

Regarding his future Hill added, 'My passion to be successful and to give my best to whatever I turn my hand to is undiminished.'

Hill made his Formula One debut in a Brabham, at Silverstone in 1992.

In 1993, he joined Williams and won his first race in Hungary later that year.

He was championship runner-up in 1994 and 1995, before winning the championship for Williams in 1996.