Martins promoted to Williams Test and Development role for 2026

Martins joined the Williams Driver Academy at the start of 2025 and arrives into the role with a strong junior record.

His résumé includes the 2020 Formula Renault Eurocup title, the 2022 FIA Formula 3 Championship, and top rookie honours in the 2023 FIA Formula 2 season.

Across 3 F2 campaigns, the Frenchman secured multiple race wins, most recently a dominant victory from pole position in the 2025 Qatar Feature Race.

The move marks the next step in Martins’ progression within the Williams structure, graduating from the academy into a full-time development role alongside Oliver Turvey and Harrison Scott.

His work will focus on supporting Williams’ race drivers Alex Albon and Carlos Sainz as Formula 1 prepares for the major technical regulation overhaul coming into force in 2026.

A key part of Martins’ responsibilities will centre on Williams’ driver in loop simulator, which became operational at the end of 2025. The simulator is central to the team’s long term investment in infrastructure and will play a significant role in car development under the new regulations. Martins will also contribute to the creation of a dedicated Driver Academy simulator programme, reinforcing Williams’ pathway for young talent.

Speaking on his new role, Martins said: “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. 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.”

Williams Sporting Director Sven Smeets underlined Martins’ value to the team’s development efforts, saying: “We’re glad to welcome Victor into his new role as Test and Development Driver in 2026. 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 programme gives him the real world context to make real impact on the development of the FW48 and future car programmes.”

Martins’ promotion further strengthens Williams’ technical depth as the team builds toward 2026, combining simulator development, on track testing experience, and race weekend support during a pivotal regulatory reset for Formula 1.