Williams, Mercedes seal long-term pact, extending engine partnership until 2030

On Monday, the Williams Formula One team and Mercedes jointly confirmed their commitment to a prolonged partnership, announcing an extension that secures the use of Mercedes engines by Williams until at least 2030.

This collaboration adds another dimension to Mercedes’ long-term contracts with three out of the 10 Formula One teams, including McLaren, which inked a similar deal in November 2023. The extension comes as the sport anticipates a significant shift in power unit rules in 2026, marking the next major transformation in Formula One.

Williams, under Mercedes propulsion since 2014, expressed their enthusiasm for the extended collaboration. James Vowles, the team’s principal and former strategy director at Mercedes, emphasized the alignment of Mercedes’ expertise, support, and technology with Williams’ aspirations for the medium and long term.

Vowles stated, “This long-term agreement with Mercedes is a positive step and forms part of our objectives for the future, while we will still retain our design and manufacturing expertise and capabilities in-house.” The agreement signifies a strategic move for Williams, reinforcing their position within the evolving landscape of Formula One.

The announcement follows Williams’ notable improvement in the 2023 season, finishing seventh overall, a significant leap from their 10th-place finish in the previous year. The team, maintaining stability, will continue with the same driver lineup featuring Alex Albon and Logan Sargeant for the 2024 season.

As Formula One anticipates rule changes and technological advancements, Williams aims to leverage the enduring collaboration with Mercedes to remain competitive and achieve their future objectives in the dynamic world of motorsport.