(Motorsport-Total.com) – Alexander Albon will reach a special milestone in his career at this weekend’s Formula 1 Grand Prix in Barcelona and celebrate it with a tribute to a Williams legend.
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The 30-year-old will become the driver with the most Grand Prix starts in the history of the traditional racing team next weekend, surpassing Nigel Mansell. Both drivers currently have 95 Grand Prix starts for Williams each.
After Albon already equaled the record in Monaco, he will now become the team’s sole record holder in Barcelona. For this occasion, Albon will compete with a special helmet design that harks back to Nigel Mansell’s color scheme from 1992, when Mansell won the world championship with Williams.
“It’s incredible to think that I’ve driven for this historic team more often than one of the true greats of the sport,” Albon himself says.
All Williams Formula 1 Cars since 1974
Regarding Mansell, he emphasizes: “Nigel Mansell was an inspiration to me growing up. He is a true fighter and a legend for both Williams and the entire Formula 1. This achievement is far more than just a number.”
About his team, the Williams driver says: “Every Grand Prix start in the last five seasons represents the hard work of the entire team in Grove. Through all the ups and downs, every race has contributed to the journey Williams has been on.”
“It is a true privilege and fills me with great pride to see my name alongside legendary Williams drivers like Nigel Mansell, Damon Hill, and Ralf Schumacher.”
Williams was Albon’s salvation
It is particularly noteworthy that Albon achieved this record after just over four seasons with Williams, while Nigel Mansell drove for the team for a total of seven, sometimes interrupted, years. The more extensive Formula 1 calendar contributes to such milestones being reached significantly faster.
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For Albon, the move to Williams in 2022 marked a decisive turning point in his career. After a difficult 2020 season at Red Bull, he lost his regular seat there and was not part of the Formula 1 grid the following year.
Since joining Williams, the Thai-Briton has established himself as a reliable constant and has led the team from the back of the field towards a solid midfield, even if he has not yet been able to add any further podium finishes to his two top-3 results from his time at Red Bull. He finished fifth four times.
Nigel Mansell remains the most successful driver in Williams’ history. His 28 victories for the team are complemented by only three further successes at Ferrari, placing him seven victories ahead of the 1996 Williams world champion, Damon Hill.
Mansell also comments on Albon’s upcoming record: “I am very pleased that Alex is reaching this milestone. It is a truly special achievement that he absolutely deserves.” And he adds: “His commitment to Williams over the past five seasons says everything about him as a driver and as a person.”
“It’s not just Alex, the entire team is moving in the right direction, and that’s great. I have no doubt that he will have many more appearances in Williams colors. As for my victory record: I wouldn’t rule anything out.”
Despite these positive developments, Williams continues to face sporting challenges. The 2026 season has been difficult so far: With only eleven points from six races, the team is currently in eighth place in the Constructors’ Championship.
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