The world-leading technology created here is part of a powerhouse cluster of businesses referred to as “Motorsport Valley”, majority of which are located within a 50-mile radius of Oxford.
An example of how the industry sparked into life can be traced to 1977 when the William’s F1 Racing team was founded by Sir Frank Williams and legendary designer Sir Patrick Head.
The pair had left a former firm which eventually closed after their departure.
Even though their venture’s first home was above a carpet warehouse in Didcot, they eventually secured iconic drivers such as Nigel Mansell and Damon Hill, and silverware followed.
Their trophy cabinet boasts 7 drivers’ championships and 9 Constructors’ titles.
Today, Williams F1 employ about 1,200 staff directly and at the 2024 British Grand Prix they commissioned a livery which had the name of every staff member on the side of the car.
“Everyone is working diligently every moment of the day,” team principal James Vowles says
The factory in Grove was used as one of the filming locations for Brad Pitt’s movie depiction of the sport.
“If you want expertise in motorsport, you will find it in the UK, and in small part of the UK around Oxfordshire,” Vowles adds.
