“I’m pleased to see our great relationship with Mercedes”- Williams to use Mercedes gearboxes from the start of 2022, intending partnership.
Williams and Mercedes despite being two contrasting ends in the competition have been sharing a great relationship off the grid in the recent years.
In the latest update by Williams, team principal Simon Roberts have claimed that they will be extending the partnership with the reigning champions by using their gearboxes from 2022.
“I’m pleased to see our great relationship with Mercedes extend beyond the supply of engines,” said Williams team boss Simon Roberts as per the Formula 1 website.
“Williams is an independent team, but Formula 1 is always evolving, and as a team, we must be agile to react to the current climate to put the team in the best position to be competitive on the track.”
“This long-term agreement with Mercedes is a positive step and forms part of our strategic objectives for the future, whilst we will still retain our design and manufacturing capabilities in-house.”
Financially sound decision
Amidst the cost-cutting because of the budget cap being imposed by Formula 1 from 2021, Toto Wolff claims it is a good move for both teams financially, especially Williams.
“For Williams, it makes sense to acquire the integrated powertrain after running our power units since 2014 and for our team, it makes sense in terms of economies of scale to supply another team under the new rules,” said Wolff.
“This is a project we have been discussing with Williams for some time, and I am glad we have been able to bring this extension to fruition,” he concluded.
While Mercedes extends its relationship with Williams, at the same time both companies have to solve George Russell’s current service place, as Lewis Hamilton is amidst contract trouble with the Brackley based team due to alleged astronomical demands by the Briton.
