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Former world champion Damon Hill got back behind the wheel of a Renault-powered Formula One car on Tuesday, when he drove an R25 - Fernando Alonso’s title-winning machine - in central London, in front of British Prime Minister Tony Blair.

The short demonstration run, organized to mark this week’s opening of the British Motor Show, took place in Whitehall, just down the road from Blair’s official Downing Street residence.

"This was only a small demo of the car, but I am proud to have taken part in this unique project," said Hill, now President of the British Racing Driver’s Club. “To have a Formula One car running in the heart of Whitehall, in the presence of the Prime Minister, is the most dramatic way possible of highlighting Britain’s standing in one of the most challenging sporting disciplines in the world."

Hill’s association with Renault - whose Formula One operation has bases in both Britain and France - dates back to his days with Williams, when he won the 1996 drivers’ title at the wheel of the Renault-powered FW18.