Brixworth, January 8, 2024 – Mercedes-Benz and Williams Racing have announced the extension of their power-unit partnership until at least 2030. This continuation marks a significant commitment by Williams to Mercedes-Benz, positioning them as the second team to adopt the upcoming 2026 power unit regulations.
Since 2014, Mercedes-AMG has been the driving force behind Williams Racing, coinciding with the introduction of the 1.6-litre V6 hybrid engines. The decade-long collaboration, culminating in its 10th season in 2023, is set to evolve into a nearly 20-year alliance by 2030.
Markus Schaefer, Member of the Board of Management of Mercedes-Benz Group AG and Chief Technology Officer, expressed enthusiasm about the extended partnership. “Our relationship with Williams Racing has been robust since the current power unit regulations began. We are excited to continue this journey into the new era, aiming for further successes with the same vigor and passion we’ve had since 2014.”
Mercedes has a storied history in motorsport, re-entering as an engine supplier in 1994 and later as a works team in 2010. Under the current power unit format, Mercedes-AMG has achieved 114 Grand Prix victories and clinched eight consecutive World Constructors’ Championships, testament to their technical prowess and competitive edge.
Toto Wolff, Head of Mercedes-Benz Motorsport, highlighted the significance of this agreement. “Renewing our deal with Williams Racing underscores the strength and appeal of Mercedes-Benz in Formula 1. This partnership is a key component of our motorsport strategy, and we’re committed to supporting Williams as they strive to compete at the forefront of the grid.”
The new power units, under development since mid-2022 at Mercedes-AMG High Performance Powertrains in Brixworth, promise innovative advancements. The collaboration with strong customer teams like Williams is expected to enhance learning and performance when these units debut in 2026.
Hywel Thomas, Managing Director of Mercedes-AMG High Performance Powertrains, recalled the joint achievements with Williams, particularly the 2014 Austrian Grand Prix, where Mercedes-powered cars dominated the top four positions. “Our alliance with Williams has grown stronger over the years, and we anticipate this to continue as we enter the next generation of power units.”
James Vowles, Team Principal of Williams Racing, expressed his excitement about the extended partnership. “Aligning with Mercedes-Benz, a leader in F1 technology, matches our long-term vision. This agreement is a strategic step forward, ensuring we maintain our design and manufacturing capabilities while benefiting from Mercedes’ expertise.”
Williams Racing, a Mercedes customer team since the start of the turbo hybrid era, has achieved 16 podium finishes, including third place in the World Constructors’ Championship in 2014 and 2015. The team’s steady progress was highlighted by their seventh-place finish in the 2023 standings, promising a bright future in the sport.
