Komatsu and Williams Racing rekindle historic partnership
Japanese construction equipment giant signs multi-year deal with iconic British F1 racing team
KOMATSU have signed a multi-year deal with Williams Racing to become the principal partner of the British team from the start of the 2024 FIA Formula One World Championship (F1) season.
Tokyo-based Komatsu were a key partner of Williams Racing in Formula One during the 1980s and 1990s, a period of abundant success for the team. The most notable achievements were in 1996 and 1997, when Komatsu supported Williams Racing to Constructors’ and Drivers’ championships with drivers Damon Hill and Jacques Villeneuve respectively.
With an eye to the future, both brands say they are excited to build on their shared history as they embark on a new era.
‘Komatsu and Williams Racing have shared values around innovation and the development of our people,’ said Hiroyuki Ogawa, president and chief executive officer of Komatsu Ltd. ‘Through our partnership, we look forward to creating value together, both on and off the track. Our partnership with Williams Racing, is aligned with Komatsu’s mission to create value through manufacturing and technology innovations to empower a sustainable future where people, businesses, and our planet can thrive together.’
James Vowles, team principal of Williams Racing, said: ‘Williams Racing are delighted to be rekindling their relationship with Komatsu. We have enjoyed huge success together in the past and reuniting is a significant step in Williams Racing’s long-term mission to return to the front of the grid. Both Williams and Komatsu are committed to attracting and developing the best young talent in pursuit of our goals and we look forward to working together again.’
Williams Racing are one of the world’s most iconic Formula One teams. The British outfit has been competing at the highest level for almost five decades, amassing 114 victories, 313 podiums, and 128 pole positions in that time. The team has also won nine constructors’ championships, making it the second most successful team in the history of the sport.
Komatsu’s logo and branding will feature prominently on the 2024 Williams Racing livery, as well as on the team’s overalls and kit, during the upcoming F1 season.
