18/02/2014
NEWS STORY
Williams has announced that it has signed a new multi-year partnership agreement with Brazilian multi-national energy company Petrobras.
The Grove outfit and Petrobras have a history of technology collaboration dating back to 1998 when it started using Petrobras' fuel for the first time in a partnership which lasted for 11 years. The new agreement will see the Williams and Petrobras technical collaboration continue once more as the two parties work together to develop a new specialist motorsport fuel for use by the team starting in the 2015 season. With new engine regulations coming into effect from 2014 that require teams to use more efficient fuels, Petrobras' expertise will ensure that the team is well placed to meet the demands of greater energy efficiency within the sport.
Petrobras will use the global platform of Formula One to further brand awareness through the placement of its logo on the side of the Williams Mercedes FW36 chassis and across the team environment and apparel.
Petrobras is a Brazilian company and global leader in energy production through deepwater oil and gas exploration and production. Today they are the pioneers in one of the world's most promising oil and gas reserves: the pre-salt formation, which will aid the company in doubling its production by 2020. This increase will significantly impact global energy supply and further the development of society.
"Petrobras and Williams have had a successful partnership before and we are both looking forward to reuniting for 2014," said Frank Williams. "Technologically they are very strong and that will be important for the team as the new regulations have made fuel efficiency increasingly important. They are also a very ambitious global company and we are looking forward to working together to further their marketing goals."
"We are very happy to be going back to the biggest motorsport competition in the world," added Petrobras President Maria das Gracas Silva Foster. "During the 11 years that Williams was by our side we made significant advances in product development, such as Podium gasoline. Participating in this competition is a huge challenge, since it requires us to always be ready to meet the highest standards for quality and efficiency demanded by the category. We are very excited to start this new challenge."
Yesterday, the Grove outfit, whose car was worryingly devoid of sponsors logos in Jerez, but which is rumoured to be bringing Martini back to the sport, announced the renewal of its partnership with watch maker, Oris, the having first joined forces in 2003. For 2014, the Oris logo will feature in a new position on the cars' nose and will also continue its presence on the driver and mechanic overalls, driver gloves, driver helmets and team kit.