Williams Racing announced a new deal with Poland’s PKN ORLEN which will feature not only on their 2019 F1 car but also on the team kit.
Following the announcement of Robert Kubica as its 2019 driver alongside rookie George Russell, Williams has signed a huge sponsorship deal with Poland-based leading fuels and energy company, PKN ORLEN.
The deal means, the branding of the company will feature on the rear wing, nose, intake system and both mirrors of the FW42. In fact, the drivers helmets will have the logo as well along with its and the mechanics’ overalls and also on the team kit.
Deputy team principal, Claire Williams, said: “We are pleased to announce that PKN ORLEN will partner Williams Martini Racing for the 2019 season. Williams stands for technology, innovation and top-class engineering, and these synergies with PKN ORLEN will help drive our partnership forward.”
Daniel Obajtel, CEO and President of the Management Board of PKN ORLEN added: “Cooperation between PKN ORLEN and Williams Martini Racing starts a new era for motorsports in Poland, as well as building the global reach of our brand.
“It is worth remembering that ORLEN Group has assets in five countries in Europe and North America today. Our products are available in over 90 countries around the world. This means that we are looking for global communication channels to establish an international position.
“Involvement in Formula One racing is one of the most effective ways to promote our brand through sports sponsorship, and we are delighted to be entering the sport with Williams. With the team having just announced Robert Kubica as a race driver for 2019, the only Pole to have participated in Formula One, we want to accompany him on his journey back to the top.”
The speculations were strong in recent times that Kubica’s signing will be backed by sponsorship from Poland. The chatter had been on during the Abu Dhabi GP as well when the Polish driver was officially confirmed as the new Williams driver.
Outgoing driver Sergey Sirotkin revealed that he understood the decision for Kubica to be hired came the week after the Brazil GP in a meeting. The Russian driver’s backers SMP Racing did not wish to continue which eventually made it easier for PKN ORLEN to step in.