Alex Albon is preparing for a memorable weekend at the Spanish Grand Prix, where he will officially become the driver with the most Formula 1 race starts for Williams since the team’s modern era, surpassing a milestone previously held by Nigel Mansell.
The Anglo-Thai driver reached his 95th Grand Prix with the Grove-based team in Monaco, matching the number of races contested by the legendary British champion. When the lights go out in Barcelona, Alex Albon will move ahead of Nigel Mansell and mark the occasion with a special helmet inspired by the one used by “The Lion” during his dominant 1992 Formula 1 World Championship-winning season.
Alex Albon pays tribute to a Williams legend
The milestone is a significant one for Alex Albon, who joined Williams in 2022 and has since become one of the key figures in the team’s rebuilding process.
Reflecting on the achievement, the former Red Bull driver expressed both pride and gratitude for the opportunity to represent one of Formula 1’s most historic teams.
“It’s incredible to think that I’ve raced for this historic team more times than one of the true greats of our sport. Nigel has been an inspiration to me throughout my career, a true fighter and a legend for both Williams and Formula 1.
“This milestone is about much more than just a number. Every Grand Prix start over the last five seasons represents the hard work of everyone at Grove. Through the highs and the lows, every race has contributed to the journey Williams has been on. It’s an immense source of pride,” commented Alex Albon.
Nigel Mansell praises Alex Albon’s achievement
Nigel Mansell was equally delighted to see his long-standing Williams milestone surpassed by a driver he greatly respects.
The 1992 Formula 1 World Champion praised Alex Albon’s commitment to the team and highlighted the progress Williams has made in recent seasons: “I’m truly happy to see Alex reach this milestone. It’s a very special achievement and he fully deserves it,” said Nigel Mansell.
“The commitment he has shown to Williams over the last five seasons says a lot about him both as a driver and as a person. And it’s not only about Alex; the entire team is moving in the right direction, and it’s fantastic to see. I have no doubt that he will continue to race many more times in Williams colours.”
James Vowles highlights Albon’s contribution
Williams Team Principal James Vowles also paid tribute to Alex Albon’s contribution to the team, emphasizing that such records are earned through years of dedication, trust and mutual commitment.
“Records like this don’t happen by chance. They are the result of years of hard work, trust and belief from both sides,” said James Vowles – “I’m immensely proud of Alex and everything he has achieved with this team. He has earned his place in Williams history, and we are proud to celebrate these milestones together.”
As Williams continues its long-term rebuilding project under James Vowles, Alex Albon has established himself as a central figure in the team’s resurgence. Reaching and surpassing a record previously held by a Formula 1 icon such as Nigel Mansell underlines both his consistency and the important role he has played in guiding Williams through one of the most significant periods of transformation in its recent history.
With a special helmet tribute and a place in the team’s record books now secured, the Spanish Grand Prix promises to be an emotional and memorable occasion for Alex Albon and the entire Williams organization.
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