Alex Albon is about to develop into probably the most skilled driver in Williams Method 1 historical past and can mark the event with a particular helmet tribute to Nigel Mansell.
Each drivers are tied on a report 95 grand prix begins for the British outfit, however this weekend’s Barcelona Grand Prix will see Albon surpass Mansell after tying his report in Monaco.
Albon will contest the grand prix with a blue, white and crimson helmet design similar to the one Mansell utilized in 1992, the 12 months he gained his world title with Williams.
“It’s unimaginable to suppose that I’ve raced for this historic staff extra usually than one of many true greats of the game,” stated Albon.
“Nigel Mansell was an inspiration to me rising up, a real fighter and a legend for each Williams and Method 1 as an entire. This achievement is about way over the quantity itself.
“Each grand prix begin during the last 5 seasons represents the onerous work of the complete staff at Grove. By the highs and lows, each race has contributed to the journey Williams has been on.
“To have my title alongside legendary Williams drivers equivalent to Nigel, Damon Hill, and Ralf Schumacher is an actual privilege and a supply of immense satisfaction.”
Nigel Mansell, Williams FW14B Renault
Photograph by: Motorsport Photos
It’s largely a testomony to how massive the present calendar is that Albon has achieved this milestone after simply over 4 seasons, whereas Mansell had seven on-and-off years at Williams – although not all have been full campaigns.
Regardless, becoming a member of the staff in 2022 proved to be the possibility for Albon to rejuvenate his F1 profession, as a really poor 2020 at Purple Bull left him off the grid for the next 12 months.
The Thai-Briton has confirmed to be a really stable pair of fingers for Williams, main it from the again into agency midfield standing however he’s but so as to add to the 2 podiums he scored at Purple Bull.
Mansell, in the meantime, stays probably the most profitable driver in Williams historical past with a report 28 wins – alongside three at Ferrari – putting him seven forward of 1996 world champion Hill.
“I am so happy to see Alex attain this milestone – it is a actually particular achievement and one he totally deserves,” stated Mansell, who dominated his option to the 1992 crown with 9 victories in 16.
“The dedication he has proven to Williams over these previous 5 seasons says all the pieces about him as a driver and as an individual.
“It isn’t simply Alex – the entire staff is transferring in the fitting route, and that is sensible to see. I’ve little doubt he’ll go on to make many, many extra appearances in Williams colors. As for my wins report – I would not rule something out.”
Williams has loads of work for Albon to get to that time although, because it has endured a sluggish begin to 2026 with 11 factors throughout six rounds to sit down eighth within the championship.
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