Williams strengthen 2026 line-up with key behind-the-scenes move

18:30, 12 Jan

byDrew Murphy

Williams has announced that its team driver academy graduate Victor Martins will become the test and development driver for 2026.

Martins will also race in the FIA World Endurance Championship with Alpine Endurance Team.

The Frenchman joined the driver academy at the start of 2025 with numerous accolades, including Formula Renault Eurocup Champion in 2020, FIA Formula 3 Champion in 2022 and top rookie in his 2023 FIA Formula 2 season.

Victor Martins. Photo: RacePictures

Throughout his three F2 campaigns, Martins secured multiple wins, most recently winning the 2025 Qatar Feature Race, where he drove to a dominant win from pole.

Martins said: “Williams is an iconic team with an incredible history, and I’m excited to be part of the project to bring this team back to the front of the grid.

“I’ve already had experience working with Alex and Carlos during race weekends, and I’m looking forward to continuing this work with the team in 2026.

“Thanks to James Vowles, Sven and everyone at Williams for the opportunity.”

Victor Martins. Photo: RacePictures

What his role will entail

Taking the next step, Martins will graduate from the driver academy into the test and development driver role at Williams alongside Oliver Turvey and Harrison Scott.

His role will be to advance the team’s development programmes to support Alex Albon and Carlos Sainz as the sport enters an unprecedented change in technical regulations.

This will include refining Williams’ state-of-the-art driver-in-loop (DIL) simulator, which came online at the end of 2025 as part of the team’s ongoing plans to invest in the people, technology and infrastructure needed to win future World Championships.

Martins will also be involved in developing a dedicated driver academy DIL, as part of our commitment to support young talent on their path to F1.

Victor Martins. Photo: RacePictures

Sven Smeets, Williams Sporting Director: “We’re glad to welcome Victor into his new role as Test and Development Driver in 2026.

“He is a talented driver who has consistently given invaluable guidance and feedback to the team, improving our on-track performance and supporting Alex and Carlos throughout the 2025 season.

“His recent experience driving the FW47 in Barcelona FP1 and supporting the TPC (Testing of Previous Cars) programme gives him the real-world context to make a real impact on the development of the FW48 and future car programmes.”

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