By Joe Murphy
Williams have confirmed that Mercedes will be their power unit supplier from 2026, henceforth, extending the already lengthy partnership between the motorsport giants. This is important because in two years time, new strict regulations will come into play in terms of sustainability and overall power consumption.
Mercedes started supplying Williams with engines at the start of the turbo-hybrid era in 2014, and the new deal means the deal will surpass 12 years as a minimum. The question now remains as to how other teams such as Red Bull and Ferrari will source their engines. Most likely estimate at this moment in time is that their respective power units will be self-produced.
F1’s future power units are set to use solely sustainable fuel, reducing overall consumption and increasing the electrical importance. The deal is no surprise, with Team Principal of Williams; James Vowles, having a long and fruitful history with the nine times constructors, working for the team during their most successful era.
Williams be hoping that this deal can be mutually beneficial, although their are no direct leaks in terms of finances either way at present. Vowles has confirmed that everything else will remain self-manufactured, stressing the pride the team has over it’s rich history.
Toto Wolff, Head of Mercedes-Benz Motorsport also reiterated how happy both parties are at this announcement: “We are delighted to confirm Williams Racing as the second customer team that we will supply for the 2026 power unit regulations.”
Wolff will hope that this expansion and added investment will benefit the Silver Arrows directly, with at least an eye on a long term future in the sport of Formula 1.
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