Williams and Mercedes, it’s signed!

It's done ! As we indicated to you in preview in the new issue of AUTOhebdo, the 1911, available since yesterday on newsstands and since Tuesday in digital version, Williams will be powered by Mercedes from next year. A partnership to " long term ", the precise duration of which has not been communicated, was signed on the occasion of the Monaco Grand Prix and will begin in 2014. The year in which the new 6l hybrid V1.6 turbo engine will come into force. News which is not a surprise, as the Grove team had been reluctant about the cost of the future engine Renault, its current engine manufacturer, and which would be much more expensive than the competition. The return of the Williams-Renault association, which evoked some of the most glorious hours of the British team, will therefore end after only two seasons.

“I am delighted to announce our new association with Mercedes-Benz for the 2014 racing season. Formula 1 and beyond ", declares Frank Williams, the founder and team principal of the eponymous team. “Mercedes-Benz is one of the most successful sports engine manufacturers, and we believe they will have an extremely competitive powertrain. » The British leader takes the opportunity to thank Renault, with whom Williams notably regained victory last year after 8 seasons without success. “I would like to take this opportunity to thank Renault for the hard work they have continually provided since we renewed our partnership at the start of the 2012 season. We have benefited from a very strong relationship, which has propelled us once again on the path to victory at the Spanish Grand Prix last year. »