Williams to celebrate 50 years in Formula 1 with 2027 events
Williams will mark its 50th consecutive Formula 1 season in 2027. The team plans a public W50 Live event in Waterloo from February 11 to February 28, 2027, showcasing historic cars and memorabilia. Williams will also name its 2027 car the FW50, skipping the FW49 designation to honor the anniversary.
Williams will become only the third squad, after Ferrari and McLaren, to complete 50 straight F1 campaigns. Its 2027 challenger, the FW50, will skip the FW49 label, mirroring the earlier FW38-to-FW40 jump. Alexander Albon and Carlos Sainz will drive it.
The W50 Live exhibition in Waterloo, running February 11–28, 2027, will display cars including the FW06, FW11B, FW14B, FW25 and FW38. Fans may also select a one-off Silverstone livery, while limited merchandise includes a Monopoly set and a commemorative book.
The anniversary events may draw visitors to Waterloo, potentially benefiting local hospitality and retail. F1 supporters, especially Williams fans, could gain new ways to engage through exhibitions, merchandise, and livery voting. The team’s heritage focus may also strengthen interest in motorsport history among younger audiences. However, any social or economic effects would likely remain modest and localized, depending on attendance and broader F1 popularity.