Williams Racing has secured Barclays as its official banking partner ahead of the 2026 Formula 1 season, marking the British bank's entry into the sport. This comes as Spanish bank Santander ends its team sponsorship after one year. The new deal coincides with the unveiling of Williams' FW48 car on February 3, 2026.
Williams Racing, one of Formula 1's most storied teams with 114 wins, nine Constructors' Championships, and seven Drivers' Championships over 48 years, has announced a multi-year partnership with Barclays for the 2026 season. The British bank, founded over 325 years ago, becomes the official banking partner, providing branding on the FW48 car—including the rear wing, side pods, chassis top, cockpit surround, and front mirrors—as well as on drivers' helmets, overalls, gloves, cooling vests, team clothing, mechanics' gear, garages, and hospitality units.
Team Principal James Vowles expressed enthusiasm: “We are delighted to welcome Barclays into the sport as Official Banking Partner to Atlassian Williams F1 Team. As we prepare for one of the most significant regulatory changes in Formula 1 history, we’re preparing to seize the opportunities of the new era together with Barclays as we continue investing for long-term success.”
Barclays President Stephen Dainton highlighted the strategic fit: “Our partnership with Atlassian Williams F1 Team will deepen our client engagement and elevate our brand across our key markets as we grow our investment banking and private banking and wealth management relationships. Working with one of the most storied teams in Formula 1 brings unparalleled global visibility.” He noted Barclays' extensive sports involvement, including the Premier League, Women's Super League, Wimbledon, Lord's, NBA Brooklyn Nets, and WNBA Liberty, emphasizing a blend of elite performance and community impact.
The partnership revives historical ties, as Barclays provided banking services to founder Sir Frank Williams and the team for years. It supports Williams' commercial growth, with recent additions like Anthropic, BNY, Sparco, Wilkinson Sword, and Nuveen joining existing partners such as Atlassian and Komatsu.
Meanwhile, Santander has ended its sponsorship with Williams, which began in 2025 when Carlos Sainz joined from Ferrari. A Santander spokesperson stated: “We would like to thank Atlassian Williams F1 Team for their work, professionalism, and commitment during the past season. We wish them success in the future.” Santander remains F1's official banking partner, planning increased presence at races like Barcelona, Silverstone, Austin, Mexico City, Sao Paulo, Las Vegas, Miami, and the new Madrid Grand Prix, including circuit lighting and static displays.
The FW48, to be driven by Sainz and Alex Albon, will launch virtually on February 3, 2026, after delays skipped the Barcelona shakedown.