Williams Racing is gearing up for an exciting 2025 season with another key signing. After Carlos Sainz, the team has added seasoned driver and former Le Mans winner Oliver Turvey as their Test and Development Driver. The ex-McLaren test driver brings a wealth of experience to bolster Williams’ ambitions for the new era.
Turvey brings 15 years of McLaren experience and a decorated motorsport career, as well as a Le Mans 24 Hours class win. He will focus on advancing Williams’ new driver-in-loop simulator and supporting development ahead of the 2026 regulation changes.
“I am delighted to join Williams. It’s an honour to have the opportunity to join such an historic and successful team.” Turvey said in the Team’s Press Release. “I have long admired Williams. Watching Damon Hill win the World Championship for them is a moment that inspired me as I began my own racing career in karting.”
Having built a reputation as a trusted development driver during his McLaren years, Turvey’s contributions largely occurred behind the scenes. His influence was key in fine-tuning car performance. Additionally, Turvey has eight seasons of experience in Formula E. His endurance racing career includes an LMP2 win at Le Mans in 2014.
Speaking about his new role, Turvey shared. “The ambition and determination driving this project are incredibly inspiring. I’m excited for the challenge ahead to help bring the team back to the top. It is a privilege to work alongside Alex [Albon] and Carlos [Sainz], who I consider two of the best drivers in F1.”
Turvey brings a blend of engineering expertise and racing experience
The 37-year-old holds an engineering degree from Cambridge University. Combined with his extensive racing experience, the achievement strengthens his role at Williams.
“I look forward to using my experience as both a driver and engineer to work closely with the team at Grove to enhance the car’s performance in the simulator and support the race team,” he said.
Turvey added, “I would like to thank James [Vowles], Sven [Smeets], and the Board for putting their trust in me. I will give everything I have to help the team achieve success.”
Williams’ Sporting Director, Sven Smeets, expressed his confidence in the team’s newest recruit. “We’re very happy to welcome Oliver to the team. He brings a vast amount of experience and expertise that will be invaluable to our progression as we continue to strengthen the team across the board.” Smeets said.
Highlighting the importance of Turvey’s role, Smeets added. “The role of a test and development driver is vital to our journey back towards success. I am confident that Oliver, who will join Harrison Scott, will result in a strong team developing the current and future cars.”
Under James Vowles’ leadership, The Grove team is going through a major transformation. With Sainz already on board and Turvey now joining as an experienced test and development driver, 2025 is shaping up to be an exciting season. It’ll be fascinating to see how Turvey contributes to the team’s progress.
