Komatsu has signed a multi-year deal with Williams Racing to become the Principal Partner of the British team from the start of the 2024 FIA Formula One World Championship (F1) season.
Komatsu's focus on the long-term development of engineering, technology, and young people is mirrored in its official designations with the team: Official STEM and Early Careers Partner, Official Esports Partner, and Official Construction Machinery Partner. These areas will overlap and combine within the partnership, as Komatsu endeavours to engage and bring focus to the next generation of innovators through STEM events enhanced by the Williams Racing esports platform.
This new partnership creates a foundation for cross-collaboration between Williams and Komatsu in the future. Both companies look forward to working together, especially relating to the development of people and exploring potential opportunities in the technical engineering ecosystem.
Komatsu was a key partner of Williams Racing in Formula One during the 1980s and 1990s, a period of success for the team. The most notable achievements were in 1996 and 1997 when Komatsu supported Williams Racing to Constructors' and Drivers' Championships with Damon Hill and Jacques Villeneuve respectively.
"Komatsu and Williams Racing have shared values around innovation and the development of our people," said Hiroyuki Ogawa, president and CEO of Komatsu Ltd. "Through our partnership, we look forward to creating value together, both on and off the track. Our partnership with Williams Racing is aligned with Komatsu's mission to create value through manufacturing and technology innovations to empower a sustainable future where people, businesses and our planet can thrive together."
"Williams Racing is delighted to be rekindling our relationship with Komatsu," said James Vowles, team principal at Williams Racing. "We have enjoyed huge success together in the past and reuniting is a significant step in Williams Racing's long-term mission to return to the front of the grid. Both Williams and Komatsu are committed to attracting and developing the best young talent in pursuit of our goals and we look forward to working together again."
