Williams F1 link up with Santander from 2025

The Williams Formula One team have announced a multi-year partnership with Spanish banking group Santander starting in 2025.

Contract:

• Santander branding will feature on next season’s car, driver helmets and team clothing
• For the three US races, this will switch to the company’s Openbank brand

Context:

Santander has chosen to join up with Williams after opting not to renew its Ferrari deal which officially expires at the end of 2024. This sees the bank follow the same path taken by Spanish driver Carlos Sainz, who will drive for Williams next season alongside Alex Albon.

The pact complements Santander’s multi-year partnership with Formula One as the series’ official retail banking partner, which was announced in September. This deal will also promote the Openbank brand in the US as Santander looks to tap Formula One’s growing presence and fanbase in the States to support the digital bank’s expansion.

Comment:

“Williams Racing is proud to add Santander to our growing roster of iconic and innovative partners for 2025 and beyond,” said James Vowles, team principal of Williams Racing.

“Joining forces with a global banking giant trusted by tens of millions of people around the world is another significant step in our transformation and we look forward to working with Santander to engage and excite fans in the years ahead.”

Coming next:

Having debuted on the Williams car at the end-of-season test in Abu Dhabi, the partnership will officially launch at the season-opening Australian Grand Prix from 14th to 16th March.

Go deeper:

• Three reasons behind Santander’s switch from Ferrari to F1
• The comeback trail: How Williams’ new commercial strategy is winning over sponsors