Williams will continue receiving Mercedes power units through the new 2026 engine regulations, which will emphasize greater electrification and the use of 100% sustainable fuels.

The two teams extended their partnership ahead of the 2024 season, continuing a collaboration that began with the introduction of the hybrid era in 2014.

Williams Team Principal, James Vowles, is encouraged by Mercedes' advancements with their 2026 F1 power unit, suggesting it will be a frontrunner in its class.

“I think Mercedes have done an exceptional job, which is why I was very happy to resign back up for an extension,” Vowles addressed on the F1 Beyond the Grid Podcast.

“And I think you’re going to see differences between power units that do not exist today.

“Today, pretty much all the power units are much of a muchness. I think that will change in 2026, and you’ll see a difference between the power units.”

Williams enjoyed their most successful years in Formula 1 with Renault engines, securing five Constructors' Championships between 1992 and 1997, except for 1995 when they narrowly lost the title to Benetton.

Mercedes, on the other hand, gained a significant advantage over the rest of the Formula 1 grid a bit more more recently, with the introduction of hybrid power units in 2014.

Vowles noted that Mercedes' 2026 advantage won’t be “as dominant as it was in 2014, where the gap across the field was much wider.” However, he remains confident that the German manufacturer will still provide his team with a competitive edge in 2026.

Williams is currently eighth in the Constructors' Championship with 16 points, aiming for better results in 2025 with a strong driver lineup featuring Carlos Sainz and Alex Albon.