Turvey joins Williams in test and development role

Williams has signed experienced test and development driver Oliver Turvey from McLaren to help develop its new simulator.

Turvey has been part of the McLaren setup for more than a decade and has combined those duties with a long spell in Formula E from 2015 until 2022. As well as a best finish in that championship of 10th place, Turvey has won the LMP2 class at Le Mans in the past, but in Formula 1 terms was best-known for his work with McLaren – which has attracted Williams to secure his services.

“We’re very happy to welcome Oliver to the team,” Williams sporting director Sven Smeets said. “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.

“The role of a test and development driver is vital to our journey back towards success, and I am confident that Oliver, who will join Harrison Scott, will result in a strong team developing the current and future cars.”

Williams is developing a new simulator that it intends to have operating later this year, and the 37-year-old’s engineering background – he holds a degree from Cambridge – was another factor in his signing.

“I am delighted to join Williams,” Turvey said. “It’s an honor to have the opportunity to join such an historic and successful team. I have long admired Williams and watching Damon Hill win the world championship for them is a moment that inspired me as I began my own racing career in karting.

“The ambition and determination driving this project are incredibly inspiring, and I’m excited for the challenge ahead to help bring the team back to the top. It is a privilege to work alongside Alex and Carlos , who I consider two of the best drivers in F1.

“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. I would like to thank James , Sven, and the Board for putting their trust in me. I will give everything I have to help the team achieve success.”