Williams reveals 2023 livery – welcomes Gulf Oil as new partner

©Williams

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Williams Racing became the third team on Monday to reveal the livery of its 2023 contender, the FW45, and to present its new partners for this season.

Williams' new car has retained its blue diamond shaped color scheme which incorporates flashes of red and blue although now with a matte finish.

The Grove-based squad has welcomed Gulf Oil International as a new major partner, an association the team describes as "a significant signing" and one that validates the team's commercial strength since its acquisition by Dorilton Capital.

Gulf returned to F1 in 2020 with McLaren, the pair reviving a historical partnership that started in the 1960s. However, the two companies opted not to extend their commercial collaboration into the 2023.

But the Gulf name will nevertheless remain in Formula 1 thanks to Williams.

The British outfit has also added Stephens as its official Investment Banking Partner, as well as Anheuser-Busch beer brand Michelob ULTRA.

Finally, Williams Racing and PureStream have partnered to lead an exchange of best practices between leading electronic trading teams and the F1 team.

Read also: Capito blames 'exhaustion' for Williams F1 departure

But perhaps the team's most significant change for 2023 is the arrival at Grove of former Mercedes director of strategy James Vowles who will take the reins of Williams following the departure at the end of last season of Jost Capito.

The team will roll out its new FW45 on February 13 at Silverstone for a shakedown run with both Alex Albon and Logan Sargeant undertaking driving duties

©Williams

"As Williams Racing continues its transformation, we’re proud to unveil this year’s livery," commented Matthew Savage, chairman of the board of Williams Racing.

"We are excited about this year’s car, and I cannot thank the entire team at Grove enough for their hard work to get ready for the season. I am delighted to welcome both new and existing partners to our journey.

"With our new Team Principal James Vowles joining us later this month, as well as our exciting driver line up of Alex and Logan, Williams Racing will be giving its all in 2023."

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Phillip van Osten

Motor racing was a backdrop from the outset in Phillip van Osten's life. Born in Southern California, Phillip grew up with the sights and sounds of fast cars thanks to his father, Dick van Osten, an editor and writer for Auto Speed and Sport and Motor Trend. Phillip's passion for racing grew even more when his family moved to Europe and he became acquainted with the extraordinary world of Grand Prix racing. He was an early contributor to the monthly French F1i Magazine, often providing a historic or business perspective on Formula 1's affairs. In 2012, he co-authored along with fellow journalist Pierre Van Vliet the English-language adaptation of a limited edition book devoted to the great Belgian driver Jacky Ickx. He also authored "The American Legacy in Formula 1", a book which recounts the trials and tribulations of American drivers in Grand Prix racing. Phillip is also a commentator for Belgian broadcaster Be.TV for the US Indycar series.