Victor Martins’ journey with Williams is entering a new and decisive chapter – one that moves him closer to the heart of the British outfit’s development just as the sport prepares for a generational reset.
The Grove-based team has confirmed that its Driver Academy graduate will step up into the role of Test and Development Driver for the 2026 season, a clear vote of confidence in a driver who has steadily built his reputation through performance, feedback and technical understanding.
Alongside his new Williams responsibilities, Martins will also race in the FIA World Endurance Championship with Alpine, ensuring his race sharpness remains intact.
From Academy Standout to Trusted Insider
Martins joined the Williams Driver Academy at the start of 2025 already decorated with junior success – Formula Renault Eurocup champion, FIA Formula 3 title winner and a standout rookie in Formula 2.
Over three F2 campaigns, he added multiple victories to his CV, most recently delivering a commanding pole-to-flag win in the 2025 Qatar Feature Race.
That résumé has now translated into a more hands-on role at Williams, where Martins will graduate from the academy into the team’s Test and Development Driver line-up alongside Oliver Turvey and Harrison Scott.
His remit will be clear: support the work of Alex Albon and Carlos Sainz as Formula 1 heads into one of the most radical regulation changes in its history.
A key focus of Martins’ new role will be simulator work, particularly with Williams’ cutting-edge driver-in-loop (DIL) simulator that came online at the end of 2025.
The Frenchman will also help develop a dedicated DIL programme for Williams’ Driver Academy – a sign that the team sees him not just as a contributor, but as a reference point for future talent.
Williams’ Trust – And Expectation
Williams sporting director Sven Smeets made it clear that Martins’ promotion is based on substance, not sentiment.
“We’re glad to welcome Victor into his new role as Test and Development Driver in 2026,” said the Belgian.
“He is a talented driver who has consistently given invaluable guidance and feedback to the team, improving our on-track performance and supporting Alex and Carlos throughout the 2025 season.
“His recent experience driving the FW47 in Barcelona FP1 and supporting the TPC (Testing of Previous Cars) programme gives him the real-world context to make real impact on the development of the FW48 and future car programmes.”
Those words underline the importance of Martins’ role: he will be directly shaping the cars Williams hopes will carry it back toward the front of the grid.
For Martins, the opportunity carries both pride and purpose.
“Williams is an iconic team with an incredible history and I’m excited to be part of the project to bring this team back to the front of the grid,” commented the 24-year-old Frenchman.
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The long game: Williams still building as Vowles looks beyond 2026“I’ve already had experience working with Alex and Carlos during race weekends, and I’m looking forward to continuing this work with the team in 2026. Thanks to James Vowles, Sven and everyone at Williams for the opportunity.”
As Formula 1 braces for sweeping change, Williams is quietly reinforcing its foundations. And with Victor Martins now embedded deeper than ever, the team is betting that tomorrow’s progress starts with the drivers it trusts today.
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