Williams Racing joins Mercedes in 2026 launch announcements: Everything you need to know. Williams has officially announced the launch date for its 2026 F1 car.

F1 | Not just Mercedes: Williams also reveals 2026 car launch date

Another Mercedes-powered team has confirmed the launch date for its 2026 Formula 1 car, with Williams following the lead of the parent team. Just hours after the first official glimpse of the new Mercedes, Williams announced the official unveiling of its 2026 livery, marking a significant step as the team prepares to embrace the new era of F1 regulations with ambitious goals. Here’s everything you need to know about the FW48 debut.

Williams confirms the launch date

The Grove-based team will officially reveal the livery of its 2026 car on Tuesday, February 3. The presentation will showcase a completely redesigned car ahead of the introduction of the most radical technical regulations of this generation. Powered by Mercedes, the FW48 represents a crucial milestone in Williams’ journey to return to the front of the grid.

Special livery for Barcelona testing

Before the official launch, Williams will debut a special fan-designed livery during the pre-season testing sessions in Barcelona. The final livery that will accompany the FW48 throughout the 2026 season will be unveiled on February 3. Drivers Alex Albon and Carlos Sainz will have the key mission of bringing Williams consistently into the top positions on the grid.

2026: a fresh start for Formula 1

The 2026 season marks a true reset for Formula 1. The new cars will be shorter, lighter, and designed to promote even more competitive racing. Williams has prepared well in advance, viewing the new regulations as a real opportunity to fight for championship goals once again.

The team heads into this new era with strong momentum, having delivered its best season in nearly a decade in 2025. Finishing fifth in the Constructors’ Championship with 137 points, achieving podiums in Baku and Qatar, and claiming the team’s first ever Sprint Race podium in Austin all demonstrated the progress of Williams’ project.

Williams joins Mercedes in early announcements

With Williams now officially following Mercedes in announcing its 2026 car, only McLaren is yet to reveal the launch date of its new Formula 1 car. Fans can expect more updates soon as the grid finalizes preparations for the new era of racing.