Williams reveals fan-chosen 'Flow State' livery for 2026 pre-season testing

Williams will debut a special, fan-voted livery called "Flow State" on its 2026 car during winter testing. The design, selected from a global poll of over 54,000 votes, features swirling navy blue speed lines on a white background, symbolizing the aerodynamic development behind the team's new challenger.

Why it matters:

This marks a significant moment of fan engagement for Williams as they enter F1's new 2026 regulatory era. By involving its global supporter base in a key visual identity decision, the team is strengthening its community ties and generating early excitement for a pivotal season where all teams start from a fresh technical rulebook.

The details:

• The "Flow State" livery was chosen from multiple options, all of which incorporated shades of Williams' signature blue. Three of the designs featured the team's recently revealed modernized logo.
• The winning design is described by the team as celebrating "the speed and science of the world’s most technologically-advanced sport," with the pattern evoking the hundreds of hours of aerodynamic testing invested in the new car.
• Team Principal James Vowles thanked fans for their participation, stating the team is "excited to carry the fans together with us when we hit the track for the first time."

The big picture:

Williams is among the last teams to confirm its 2026 car launch plans, alongside McLaren and Mercedes. In contrast, Red Bull and Racing Bulls were the first to announce their launch dates, with Ferrari being the most recent to join the confirmed list. The special livery reveal serves as a strategic placeholder to maintain fan and media interest ahead of the full car unveiling.

What's next:

All attention now turns to the official launch of the Williams FW48—the car that will carry the "Flow State" livery—and its subsequent on-track debut in pre-season testing. The 2026 season represents a clean slate under new regulations, and this fan-centric initiative is Williams' first public step in building momentum for its campaign to move up the grid.