Luke Browning Named Williams F1 Reserve Driver for 2026, Joins Super Formula Campaign with Kondo Racing

F1 Grand Prix, GP United States, Circuit of The Americas

Williams has confirmed that Luke Browning will step up to the role of Formula 1 Reserve Driver for the 2026 season, marking the most significant milestone yet in the British driver’s rapid rise through the single‑seater ranks. Alongside his new responsibilities in Grove, Browning will embark on his debut campaign in Japan’s Super Formula Championship with Team Kondo Racing.

The announcement comes after a standout 2025 FIA Formula 2 season, where Browning finished fourth overall with Hitech GP. In his first full year in the category, he delivered nine podiums and a commanding victory at Monza, converting pole position into a hard‑fought feature‑race win.

Reflecting on his promotion, Browning said: “I’m incredibly excited to be stepping up as Reserve Driver with Atlassian Williams F1 Team this year.

"The Academy has been instrumental in my growth, supporting me through both Formula 3 and Formula 2 while giving me the chance to get up to speed with modern F1 machinery through testing and FP1 sessions.”

He added that his new racing programme in Japan represents a major opportunity: “I’m also happy to confirm that 2026 will be my rookie season in Super Formula. This will be a completely new challenge, and I’m looking forward to getting stuck in.

"As my next step up towards a full‑time Formula 1 seat, this gives me another chance to show how I've developed on track and continue to build my skills in a new environment and culture.”

As reserve driver, Browning will support Williams throughout the first season of Formula 1’s new regulations cycle. His duties will include race‑weekend stand‑by, extensive simulator work, and contributing to the development of the team’s 2026 challenger.

Team Principal James Vowles praised Browning’s progress and the value he brings to the organisation: “It’s a proud moment to see Luke stepping into the Reserve Driver role from 2026

"He has made immense progress since he joined the Academy in 2023 and has supported the team’s journey back towards the front of the grid through his involvement in simulator and FP1 work, which has been invaluable as we enter this new era of regulations.”

Vowles also highlighted the importance of Browning’s Japanese campaign: “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.”

Browning’s rise reflects the continued strength of the Williams Driver Academy, which he joined in 2023. Since then, he has won the Macau Grand Prix, finished third in FIA Formula 3, and made multiple FP1 outings in the FW47. He has also participated in the team’s Testing of Previous Cars programme, gaining mileage in the FW45.

Sporting Director Sven Smeets emphasised the Academy’s role in shaping Williams’ future: “We’re pleased to confirm our Williams F1 Team Driver Academy line-up for this year and recognise the depth of talent progressing through the programme, from our youngest driver in Lucas to Luke’s role as Reserve.

"The Driver Academy remains a central part of how we support and guide young talent and we look forward to seeing how each driver performs this year," he added.