Williams Secures Sainz and Albon for 2027

Atlassian Williams F1 Team has locked in its driver line-up for its landmark 50th anniversary season in 2027, with both Alex Albon and Carlos Sainz committing their futures to the Grove-based squad through new multi-year agreements.

The back-to-back announcements provide a significant vote of confidence in Williams’ long-term vision as the team continues its push to return to the front of the Formula 1 grid. Despite a challenging 2026 campaign, both drivers have reaffirmed their belief in the transformation taking place behind the scenes under Team Principal James Vowles.

Together, Albon and Sainz form one of the most experienced pairings in Formula 1, combining for more than 370 Grand Prix starts, over 1,600 championship points and 31 podium finishes. Their continued commitment ensures stability as Williams prepares to celebrate 50 years in the sport, adding to a rich legacy that includes nine Constructors’ World Championships and 114 race victories.

Since joining Williams in 2022, Albon has become one of the key figures driving the team's rebuild. His performances helped deliver Williams’ strongest season since 2016, with a series of impressive results contributing to an eighth-place finish in the Drivers’ Championship with 73 points last year.

The Thai driver has also etched his name into the team’s history books. Earlier this season, he surpassed Nigel Mansell’s long-standing record for the most race starts with Williams, making his 100th appearance for the team in Budapest.

Carlos Sainz arrived at Williams in 2025 and has quickly established himself as another central figure in the team's resurgence. The four-time Grand Prix winner has brought extensive experience and technical expertise to the project, while delivering notable results on track.

Among the highlights of his first two seasons with Williams were a maiden podium for the team in Baku, followed by a Sprint podium in Austin and another top-three finish in Qatar. His new deal signals a shared belief in the direction of the team and its ability to compete for honours in the years ahead.

Sainz said:

"I’m thrilled to announce my continued journey with the Atlassian Williams F1 Team family! I truly believe in the people that form this team, both at the factory and at the racetracks, and the investments and hard work that are happening in the background. We have what it takes to turn this around together. I’m as committed as I was on day one to helping get Williams back to where it belongs, and I look forward to creating more memories with the team.”

Albon echoed that confidence in the team's progress and future ambitions.

“Since joining Atlassian Williams F1 Team in 2022, the transformation this team has made is difficult to put into words. One tough year doesn’t tell the full picture, and it only gives me more motivation to keep building and pushing together with the factory and our fans to achieve great things. Our story is not over yet, so my full focus now is on doing whatever it takes to get us back up the grid.”

For Vowles, securing both drivers represents another important milestone in Williams’ long-term rebuild.

“Along with Alex, I truly believe we have one of the strongest line-ups on the grid, and a team capable of fighting for every ounce of performance together."

With Albon and Sainz now confirmed through the team’s 50th anniversary season, Williams has secured the continuity, experience and leadership it believes will be crucial in its pursuit of a return to the front of Formula 1. As one of the sport’s most iconic teams approaches a historic milestone, both drivers remain determined to help write the next chapter in Williams’ story.