LONDON (AFP) - Williams Formula One team said on Tuesday (Dec 15) that their founder Frank Williams has been admitted to hospital where he is in a stable condition.

The 78-year-old established the team in 1977 and went on to win nine Constructors' Championships and seven Drivers' titles, although the most recent triumphs came in 1997.

"Sir Frank Williams has recently been admitted to hospital where he is currently in a stable condition," the team said in a statement.

"Frank's medical condition is a private matter and therefore the family will not be releasing any further details at this time.

"We will ask you to respect the family's privacy. The team will release a further update in due course."

Williams has used a wheelchair since being injured in a car accident in France in 1986.

He stepped down from the board of the Williams F1 team in 2012, and ceased to have any involvement in the team in September this year, following its sale to Dorilton Capital.