French Grand Prix 1996 - Race Schedule and Countdown

Damon Hill dominated the French Grand Prix at Magny-Cours, leading home Jacques Villeneuve in yet another Williams one-two finish that underlined the team's superiority. The Englishman controlled the race from lights to flag, never looking threatened despite Villeneuve's presence in his mirrors throughout the 72 laps.

Villeneuve finished second after another strong drive, unable to challenge Hill's superior pace but comfortably ahead of third-placed Jean Alesi's Benetton. The Canadian's second place kept him in touch with Hill in the championship, though the gap remained significant. Alesi's consistent podium finishes were keeping Benetton in the hunt for second in the constructors' championship, though they were well off Williams' pace. Michael Schumacher finished fourth for Ferrari, unable to repeat his Spanish brilliance on a circuit that favored Williams' aerodynamic efficiency.

Hill's victory was his sixth of the season and extended his championship lead to 21 points over Villeneuve. The Williams one-two demonstrated their dominance at a circuit where Renault power traditionally excelled, with the French engine manufacturer celebrating another strong result at their home race. The result was another step toward Hill's long-awaited world championship, though Williams' controversial decision not to retain him for 1997 cast a shadow over his success.