Design-wise, the JS41 bore a striking resemblance to the Benetton B195. At the start of 1995, Ligier was part-owned by Benetton's director, Flavio Briatore. Briatore transferred the Renault engines Ligier had used for the previous three years to Benetton, in turn convincing Mugen to supply Ligier instead of Minardi. During the season, Briatore sold his shares in Ligier to Tom Walkinshaw, Benetton's engineering director. As a result, the JS41 was one of the most competitive Ligiers in years which allowed Brundle and Panis to regularly fight for points in races.
A JS41 chassis was later bought by Bridgestone to test the Japanese company's tyres prior to its entry into Formula One in 1997.