Vote now: Williams lets fans choose test livery for 2026 FW48

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Williams is kicking off Formula 1’s new technical era with a fan-fuelled flourish, inviting supporters worldwide to choose the test livery for its 2026 challenger, the FW48.

After a breakout 2025 campaign that saw the team climb to fifth in the Constructors’ standings, the Grove squad is doubling down on momentum – and fan power.

Carlos Sainz and Alex Albon were at the forefront to help Williams rediscover its competitive spark this season. With two top-three finishes courtesy of the Spaniard and consistent points from Albon, the team firmly planted itself at the front of the midfield.

Now, as Formula 1 braces for sweeping regulations in 2026, Williams believes it is well-placed to take another step forward. A strengthened partnership with Mercedes for power units and renewed confidence inside the factory has set expectations buzzing.

Six designs, one vote – and a slice of team history

Fans can now help shape the FW48’s first moments on track by selecting one of six bespoke liveries on the team’s website.

Voting closes on December 16, with the winning design to be revealed later this month before becoming the car’s official testing look when it rolls out at the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya in January.

Team Principal James Vowles said the initiative felt like a natural continuation of the connection built with supporters over the last season.

“One of our joys this year has been seeing the growing number of fans proudly wearing blue to support Atlassian Williams Racing on our path back to the top,” he said;

“There is no better way to start 2026 than by giving our millions of fans around the world the chance to choose what the FW48 looks like on its very first laps. It will be special for the team and a pleasure to carry the fan livery as we enter a new era for the sport.”

Albon: ‘Vote now!’

Alex Albon echoed that excitement, urging fans to make their voices heard.

“We see the incredible passion and commitment of Atlassian Williams Racing fans at every race and with the thousands of messages of support that help drive the team forward,” commented the Anglo-Thai Racer.

Read also: Sainz hails ‘nice guy’ Norris as worthy world champion

“I can’t wait to see which of these six brilliant designs they choose for us to kick off the new 2026 era with at Barcelona testing. Choose your favourite version of Williams blue and vote now!"

Following Barcelona, Williams and the rest of the grid will head to Bahrain for back-to-back testing sessions on February 11 and then from February 18–20.

The all-important first race of the new era arrives on March 8 in Melbourne, where Williams hopes the foundations laid in 2025 will set the tone for an even stronger season ahead.

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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.