Williams bank key new partner as Sainz joins

Williams has added Spanish bank Santander as a new partner, the team has confirmed, as Carlos Sainz joins the Grove squad following the end-of-season Abu Dhabi Grand Prix.

The Spanish driver is taking part in a filming day for the nine-time constructors' champions at the Yas Marina Circuit, with the sponsor also moving over from Ferrari.

The 30-year-old has been backed by the retail bank for a number of years and its leaving the Italian team had already been confirmed.

It has signed a multi-year deal with Williams from 2025 and beyond. However, it has also been confirmed that: "Santander branding will feature on the FW46 for this week’s end-of-season test in Abu Dhabi, where Spaniard Carlos Sainz will take the wheel of a Williams for the first time... Santander or Openbank branding will feature on the FW47, driver helmets and team clothing throughout 2025."

Williams team principal James Vowles said: "Williams Racing is proud to add Santander to our growing roster of iconic and innovative partners for 2025 and beyond.

Joining forces with a global banking giant trusted by tens of millions of people around the world is another significant step in our transformation and we look forward to working with Santander to engage and excite fans in the years ahead."

Meanwhile, Juan Manuel Cendoya, global head of communications, corporate marketing and research of Santander and vice chair of Santander Spain added: “We are delighted to partner with Williams Racing with a tactical agreement that allows us to keep offering exclusive experiences to our customers and continue to support Carlos Sainz in his new stage.

"This is one of the most historic teams with the greatest legacy in F1, and complements our role as the official retail banking partner of the competition with a focus on our main markets."