Williams Racing has confirmed Victor Martins as the team's official test and reserve driver for the 2026 Formula 1 season.
The French driver, who competed in Formula 2 in recent seasons, will take on simulator duties and be available as a standby should either of the team's race drivers be unable to compete. Martins will also participate in selected free practice sessions throughout the year.
The appointment is part of Williams' ongoing effort to build depth within its driver programme as the team continues its long-term rebuild under team principal James Vowles. The Grove-based outfit has been restructuring across multiple departments since Vowles joined from Mercedes.
Martins brings experience from his time in the junior formulae, including race wins in Formula 3 and Formula 2. His role will include extensive work in Williams' simulator facility, helping with car development and setup correlation ahead of race weekends.
Williams are preparing for a significant step forward with the FW48, designed under the 2026 technical regulations. Having a capable test driver who can contribute meaningful data is considered an important element of the team's development programme.
Source: formula1.com