The Williams team has presented the paint scheme for their upcoming 2026 Formula 1 vehicle, which faced a delay.
This new FW48 model will display a predominant dark blue and black aesthetic, consistent with previous models, though it will also incorporate light blue and white accents on its sidepods, where the Barclays and Komatsu emblems are placed, along with additional white on the forward and rear aerofoils.
On Wednesday, the racing organization declared that the UK-based bank would serve as its “formal financial partner,” while Komatsu, a Japanese producer of construction machinery, has been backing the squad since the 2024 racing calendar.
“The year 2026 represents the subsequent phase in the journey for the Atlassian Williams F1 Team to regain its leading position, as we embark on a fresh chapter for the discipline, and we are enthusiastic about the forthcoming season,” stated James Vowles, the team principal.
“Our team boasts an excellent roster of drivers, several superb new collaborators, an expanding supporter base, and our aim is to expand upon the achievements we experienced in the previous year; however, we are fully aware of the obstacles before us. While the outcome of the initial race remains uncertain, we eagerly anticipate discovering it, and trust that our supporters will enjoy backing us with this magnificent new exterior design.”
The quest for Williams to return ‘to the pinnacle’ commenced rather unfavorably, with the team’s absence from the Barcelona pre-season trials, leaving its FW48 as the sole 2026 car not yet publicly showcased – a situation that persists, given that today’s event is solely a unveiling of its aesthetic.
Williams FW48
Photo by: Williams
The organization acknowledged “setbacks in the FW48 project,” yet Vowles later maintained that Williams “had the capability to attend Barcelona,” despite conceding that doing so would have left the team disadvantaged regarding available components.
“The engine is supplied by Mercedes, and the transmission unit is also from Mercedes; consequently, the insights they are gaining this week in Barcelona will be beneficial for us in Bahrain,” remarked the British individual during the previous week.
“While I don’t wish to solely rely on their diligent efforts, it’s also important to note that this situation still presents an advantage for us, or at least mitigates a potential drawback. I am certain that with six days available in Bahrain, we will successfully complete our required agenda, which is precisely why we are currently utilizing the VTT [Virtual Test Track].
“My intention was to ensure that from the very beginning in Bahrain, our car is dependable and prepared for action, thereby avoiding a scenario where we are stagnant, much like many individuals and teams in Barcelona who are striving to depart their garages. We absolutely must be prepared to commence.”
The preparatory trials in Bahrain are scheduled for February 11-13 and 18-20; the physical FW48 car is not anticipated to be revealed prior to these dates.
