Williams signs Turvey as development and test driver for F1 2025

Oliver Turvey has been signed to Williams’ Formula 1 team as a test and development driver to assist with the Grove squad’s progress on its new simulator package.

The Briton switches to Williams after holding a similar role for McLaren for over 15 years, and had tested multiple times over that span with the Woking squad alongside other racing activities. 

Alongside his motorsport involvement, Turvey studied engineering at Cambridge and this background made him a much sought-after development driver across F1, Formula E, and endurance racing.

Turvey will assist with the development of Williams’ new driver-in-loop simulator, and employ his knowledge to help validate the team’s progress with its preparation for F1’s 2026 regulation package.

“I am delighted to join Williams,” said Turvey. “It’s an honour to have the opportunity to join such an historic and successful team. 

“The ambition and determination driving this project are incredibly inspiring, and I’m excited for the challenge ahead to help bring the team back to the top. 

“It is a privilege to work alongside Alex and Carlos, who I consider two of the best drivers in F1. I look forward to using my experience as both a driver and engineer to work closely with the team at Grove to enhance the car’s performance in the simulator and support the race team. 

“We’re very happy to welcome Oliver to the team,” added sporting director Sven Smeets. “He brings a vast amount of experience and expertise that will be invaluable to our progression as we continue to strengthen the team across the board. 

“The role of a test and development driver is vital to our journey back towards success, and I am confident that Oliver, who will join Harrison Scott, will result in a strong team developing the current and future cars.”

Turvey, 37, was the recipient of the Autosport BRDC Award back in 2006, after finishing second in that year’s Formula BMW UK championship.

He joined McLaren as a development driver in 2009 while racing in Formula Renault 3.5, and continued that role through various regulatory changes.

Simultaneously, Turvey was also part of Jota’s 2014 Le Mans 24 Hours class win in LMP2, which preceded his move to the NEXTEV Formula E team at the end of the 2014-15 season. 

The Briton remained with the team through various changes in identity, as it became backed by electric vehicle manufacturer NIO and then taken over by the Lisheng Racing concern.

In recent years, he has dovetailed his McLaren role with that of sporting advisor at the DS Penske Formula E team, after losing his NIO 333 seat at the end of 2022.