Browning bags the backup seat! Williams promote Brit star to 2026 F1 reserve role

 

Luke Browning, British racing driver and Atlassian Williams Formula One (F1) Team. Have announced Browning as their F1 reserve driver for the 2026 season. He will also compete full-time in Super Formula in Japan in addition to supporting Williams through simulator work, data analysis and race weekend standby duties.

Browning earned the promotion after a strong Formula Two (F2) season, finishing fourth with one victory and multiple podiums. He has already completed F1 sessions and extensive simulator work for Williams.

Luke Browning, Reserve Driver Atlassian Williams F1 Team said: “The Academy has been instrumental in my growth, supporting me through both Formula Three (F3) and F2 while giving me the chance to get up to speed with modern F1 machinery through testing and FP1 sessions.”

Williams view him as key contributor as they enter a new era of F1 regulations and push to return to the front.

With the team also confirming that he will compete in Super Formula Championship with Team Kondo Racing, Japan’s premier racing series, considered to be the second fastest racing series in the world behind F1.

James Vowles, Team Principal Atlassian Williams F1 Team said:”His Super Formula campaign will allow him to gain more on track experience and continue his growth as a driver and we look forward to seeing him back on track as he enters this next stage of his racing career.”

The graduation to reserve driver and Super Formula campaign is the latest step in Browning’s development as part of the Williams F1 Driver Academy.

Browning’ ascent through the motorsport ladder continues the Academy’s proud tradition of giving young talent a path into F1.

Sven Smeets, Sporting Director Atlassian Williams F1 Team said: “The Driver Academy remains a central part of how we support and guide young talent and look forward to seeing how each driver performs this year.”

The Driver Academy has strengthened year on year, bringing emerging stars into the programme and supporting each driver as they advance toward the highest levels of competition.

By Charlie Gardner 

📸 Imagery courtesy of Atlassian Williams Formula One Team