Williams Taps Victor Martins for Key Development Role in 2026
Williams appoints Victor Martins as a key development driver for 2026, tasked with supporting Carlos Sainz and Alex Albon through the sport's massive technical overhaul.
Williams has promoted academy driver Victor Martins to the role of official Test and Development Driver for the 2026 season. The Frenchman will be a crucial part of the team's efforts to develop the new FW48 car and support race drivers Carlos Sainz and Alex Albon amidst Formula 1's massive technical regulation overhaul.
Why it matters:
A dedicated development driver is the critical link between the engineering department and the race drivers, translating complex data into real-world driving feedback. With the 2026 regulations introducing entirely new power units and aerodynamic concepts, this feedback loop is more vital than ever for a team like Williams to build a competitive car from the ground up and allow Sainz and Albon to maximize performance immediately.
The details:
- Official Role: Martins steps up from the Williams Driver Academy to join Oliver Turvey and Scott Harrison in a formal testing capacity. The team states he will play a "crucial role in advancing the team’s development programmes."
- Simulator Focus: A primary part of his job will be refining and working extensively in Williams' state-of-the-art driver-in-the-loop simulator, which became operational late last year. This is where the bulk of initial car setup and concept testing will occur.
- Real-World Experience: Martins already has valuable track time with the team, having driven the FW47 during a practice session in Barcelona and participating in the Testing of Previous Cars (TPC) program. This gives his simulator feedback essential real-world context.
- Dual Program: He will balance his Williams duties with a full-season campaign in the World Endurance Championship (WEC) for Alpine, ensuring he remains race-sharp and current.
What's next:
Martins' contributions will be directly funneled into the development of the FW48, Williams' first car built for the new regulations. Team leadership has praised his "invaluable guidance," signaling that he is a trusted asset in their long-term project to return the iconic team to the front of the grid. His ability to provide consistent, high-quality feedback could be a significant factor in how quickly Williams adapts and competes in the new era of F1.