Williams sign Oliver Turvey from McLaren in test and development role

Williams have announced the signing of Oliver Turvey as their new Test and Development Driver, providing additional support to full-time racers Alex Albon and Carlos Sainz.

British racer Turvey, 37, brings some 15 years of experience across F1, Formula E and sportscar racing to Grove, where “he will play a pivotal part in advancing Williams’ development programmes and simulator operations”.

This will include helping to develop a state-of-the-art driver-in-loop (DIL) simulator, which is set to become operational later this year, as Williams continue their quest to climb the F1 pecking order under new team boss James Vowles.

Alongside a racing career that includes wins in a host of single-seater championships and victory at the prestigious 24 Hours of Le Mans, Turvey has spent the last 15 years in a test and development role at McLaren.

He is also a Cambridge engineering graduate, with Williams noting that this blend of competitive experience and education “uniquely equips him to contribute to the team’s ongoing progression ahead of major regulation changes in 2026”.

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“It’s an honour to have the opportunity to join such an historic and successful team,” said Turvey. “I have long admired Williams and watching Damon Hill win the World Championship for them is a moment that inspired me as I began my own racing career in karting.

“The ambition and determination driving this project are incredibly inspiring, and I’m excited for the challenge ahead to help bring the team back to the top. It is a privilege to work alongside Alex and Carlos, who I consider two of the best drivers in F1.

Turvey tested plenty of F1 cars with McLaren over the years

“I look forward to using my experience as both a driver and engineer to work closely with the team at Grove to enhance the car’s performance in the simulator and support the race team.

“I would like to thank James, Sven [Smeets, Williams Sporting Director], and the Board for putting their trust in me. I will give everything I have to help the team achieve success.”

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Smeets added: “We’re very happy to welcome Oliver to the team. He brings a vast amount of experience and expertise that will be invaluable to our progression as we continue to strengthen the team across the board.

“The role of a test and development driver is vital to our journey back towards success, and I am confident that Oliver, who will join Harrison Scott, will result in a strong team developing the current and future cars.”