Victor Martins leaves Alpine for Williams, landing a key role and immediate F1 test as the British team reshapes its future.
Williams Racing has officially signed Victor Martins, the former Alpine junior driver, marking a major shift in the young Frenchman’s career. As part of the move, Martins will get behind the wheel of a Formula 1 car this weekend — a rare opportunity for any driver making the transition.
The 23-year-old is set to test the 2023-spec FW45 at Monza, as part of an official “previous car” test session allowed under F1 regulations.
Williams Sporting Director Sven Smeets praised Martins, calling him “a proven talent with the ability to win championships.”
Martins already boasts an impressive track record. He claimed the Formula Renault Eurocup title in 2020 with ART Grand Prix and followed it up with the FIA Formula 3 championship in 2022. His rookie season in Formula 2 ended with a solid fifth place, though he slipped to seventh last year — with just one victory, a sprint race win at the Circuit de Catalunya.
This season, Martins started strong by taking pole position in Australia’s F2 opener, although the race was canceled due to heavy rain.
He’ll join fellow Williams Academy driver Luke Browning at Monza for the test.
Martins Swaps Alpine For Williams
Martins’ move to Williams comes just two months after Franco Colapinto left the team to join Alpine — the very academy Martins has now exited.
“I’m thrilled to join the Williams Racing Driver Academy,” Martins said. “This is a brand-new chapter, but my goal remains the same — to push myself, both as a person and as a driver, and reach Formula 1.”
“Williams is such an iconic team with a legendary history, and I truly believe it’s the best place to help me achieve my ambitions. This year, my full focus is on winning the F2 championship with ART Grand Prix and making the most of every opportunity the Academy provides — on and off the track. I can’t wait to start this journey with the Williams team.”
Smeets added: “We’re delighted to welcome Victor to the Williams Racing Driver Academy. He’s shown time and again that he has what it takes to win. We’re excited to support his growth both on track and off, and we’re looking forward to working closely with him in 2025.”
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Williams signs Victor Martins in major F1 Academy coup
Williams signs Victor Martins in major F1 Academy coup
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