After signing its best season since 2017 in 2025, Williams is determined to build on that success in 2026. With renewed momentum and significant structural changes under the leadership of James Vowles, the British team is gearing up to roar with its Mercedes engine. With new regulations and hopes for podiums, the suspense is at its peak.
A Season Full of Hope
In 2025, Williams managed to climb to fifth place in the Constructors’ Championship, a feat that hadn’t been achieved in several seasons. The 2026 season promises to be a golden opportunity to capitalize on this positive momentum. With the same driver duo, Alexander Albon and Carlos Sainz, the team hopes to continue its upward trajectory. The renewal of structures and the clear vision of its director, James Vowles, could provide the British team with a decisive boost.
A Mercedes Engine Under the Hood
The most notable change for Williams lies in the adoption of the Mercedes power unit, expected to be one of the most powerful on the grid. Experts agree that this new power unit could propel the team to new heights. As part of the new technical regulations, the engine of Formula 1 has undergone a radical transformation: goodbye to the MGU-H, which recovered energy from exhaust gases, and hello to a complete parity between the power of the internal combustion engine and that of the electric part. A true revolution!
Sustainable Fuels for a Responsible Future
Another major innovation lies in the use of 100% sustainable fuels to power these new power units. This is a significant first step towards a greener Formula 1, and Williams, with its history of innovation, positions itself as a pioneer in this transition. The promise of a powerful and environmentally friendly engine could well attract fans and sponsors.
Promising First Steps
This Thursday, the Grove factory resonated with the sound of the Mercedes engine fired up for the first time. Just days before the first winter tests in Barcelona, which will take place from January 26 to 30, the excitement was palpable. Williams shared several videos on social media, giving fans a taste of the thrilling sound of this new power unit. A bold comparison between the sounds of the starts from 2025 and 2026 particularly caught attention.
A Temporary Livery Chosen by Fans
To approach the Barcelona tests, Williams opted for a temporary livery, chosen by fans in a vote. A great way to involve the community and create a strong bond between the team and its supporters. The official presentation of the 2026 livery is scheduled for February 3, just before the winter testing sessions in Bahrain, which will take place from February 11 to 13 and then from February 18 to 20. The tension is rising!
A Look Toward the Future
With all these changes and hopes, Williams seems to finally be turning the page on a difficult period. The team has surrounded itself with the right people and invested in future technologies to hope to return to the top of the standings. Fans can expect an exciting season, where every turn could mean surprise. The road to the top is still long, but with a Mercedes engine under the hood, anything is possible.
