Williams acquired by Dorilton Capital, a private American group

The announcement is crucial. Since its founding in 1977 by Frank Williams and Patrick Head, the Williams stable had always been owned by the eponymous family. But this Friday, August 21, 2020 marks a turning point in the history of the team with 9 Manufacturers' titles, 7 Drivers' crowns and 114 victories in Formula 1.

This is in fact the very first time that a company has purchased the Grove (Great Britain) firm. Its name: Dorilton Capital, a private company based in the United States, in New York. Its methods are, according to Williams, to provide “ flexible and patient investment to build and strengthen societies ».

The heritage of F1 will be preserved. Thus, the team will continue to race on circuits under the Williams Racing banner, and the name of the chassis (FW, for Frank Williams) will not be changed. The American buyer has also “not no plans to relocate from Grove, its traditional headquarters »

On the verge of death for several years, due in particular to last-rate track performance (10th since 2018, 1 point in 2019, zero in 2020 before the Belgian GP) and low monetary income, Williams is thus starting again on healthy foundations. Frank Williams even approved Dorilton Capital's project.

Team Principal Claire Williams, who took over the business at her father's request in the early 2010s, was obviously delighted to announce the news. " L'The strategic review was a useful process to follow and proved that Formula 1 and Williams had credibility and value. We have now come to conclusion and are delighted that Dorilton is the new owner of the team.

When we started this process, we wanted to find a partner who shared the same passion and values, who recognized the potential of the team and who could unleash its power. With Dorilton, we know we've found just that. People who understand the sport and what it takes to be successful. People who respect the legacy of the team and will do everything to ensure its success in the future.

As a family, we have always put our team first. Succeeding again and protecting our employees has been at the heart of this process from the start. It may be the end of an era for Williams as a family team, but we know they are in good hands. The sale ensures the survival of the team, but above all will pave the way to success.

We are extremely grateful to Dorilton for the trust they have shown in our team and we look forward to working with them now. I would also like to thank the Williams Board and our advisors who have worked tirelessly over the past few months to achieve this, as well as our employees who have remained loyal »