Williams claims not to be for sale, but does not rule out discussions with Porsche
After the mystery sparked by a publication on one of the Instagram accounts, speculations were circulating that Porsche would be entering Formula 1 with Williams. While a takeover could be an idea, Williams confirms that it is not their intention to sell the team.
This Monday, on its Formula E Instagram account, the German brand deleted all of its posts, leaving only one. The caption of the posted video mentioned that something big would be announced on the very same day, Monday, January 16th. This was enough to fuel speculation about a possible entry of Porsche into Formula 1 by partnering with Williams. The biggest rumor, the one about an association and significant acquisition of the Williams team, quickly gained momentum.
Porsche is indeed looking to enter Formula 1 by 2026. As the manufacturer cannot arrive with an independent team, the other 10 teams seem reluctant to welcome and share the revenues of the FOM with an additional team, making it necessary to collaborate with one of the existing teams. Negotiations initially took place with Red Bull Racing but quickly ended in failure. Since then, Williams has emerged as the most probable option and even the only possible one, considering that Sauber will be partnering with Audi.
Several possibilities can be considered for this. Porsche can acquire Williams from Dorilton Capital, the group which has owned the team for 2 years. But another possibility is simply a partnership between a manufacturer and an engine supplier. Williams is still in search of an engine supplier as they are not capable of producing their own engine.
Yesterday, Williams put an end to the takeover rumors but left the door open for possible future exchanges between the two entities by explaining: « The rumors that Williams Racing is for sale are not true. We are open to any discussion regarding engine supply with manufacturers from 2026, when the new engine regulations come into effect.
“We are happy with our relationship with Mercedes and appreciate all their efforts,” confirmed the Williams spokesperson.
Porsche has also brought clarity to this teaser on the Formula E social media channel, which is not related to Formula 1, as stated by a spokesperson from the German brand.
We have overhauled the social media presence of our three factory programs (TAG Heuer Porsche Formula E, Porsche Penske Motorsport, and Porsche Coanda Esports Racing Team). They are now all covered under the same channel @Porsche.Motorsport (formerly Formula E) on Instagram.
If this announcement ends the sale of Williams, Porsche’s desire to join F1 will necessarily involve negotiations with the team created by Franck Williams, and the door is not closed.
