Albon to race with special Mansell-inspired helmet to celebrate breaking Williams race starts record

Alex Albon will run a special edition helmet designed in tribute to Nigel Mansell at this weekend's Barcelona-Catalunya Grand Prix to mark the moment he surpasses the 1992 World Champion's record of the most race starts for Williams.

Albon made his debut with Williams in 2022 and has since played a key role in helping the team move from the back of the field to fighting at the sharp end of the midfield.

The 30-year-old, who has scored a best-placed finish of P5 on multiple occasions for Williams, pulled equal with Mansell on 95 starts for Williams in Monaco and will move clear on 96 in Spain on Sunday.

The bespoke helmet design is a modern replica of Mansell's iconic 1992 championship-winning helmet.

“It is incredible to think that I've raced for this historic team more often than one of the true greats of the sport," said Albon.

"Nigel Mansell was an inspiration to me growing up, a true fighter and a legend for both Williams and Formula 1 as a whole. This achievement is about far more than the number itself.

"Every Grand Prix start over the last five seasons represents the hard work of the entire team at Grove. Through the highs and lows, every race has contributed to the journey Williams has been on.

"To have my name alongside legendary Williams drivers such as Nigel, Damon Hill, and Ralf Schumacher is a real privilege and a source of immense pride."

Team Principal James Vowles added: “Records like this don't happen by accident – they're the result of years of hard work, trust, and belief on both sides. I am immensely proud of Alex and everything he has achieved with this team.

"He has earned his place in Williams history, and we're proud to celebrate these milestones together."

Mansell said: "I'm so pleased to see Alex reach this milestone – it's a really special achievement and one he thoroughly deserves. The commitment he has shown to Williams over these past five seasons says everything about him as a driver and as a person.

"And it's not just Alex – the whole team is moving in the right direction, and that's brilliant to see. I have no doubt he'll go on to make many, many more appearances in Williams colours. As for my wins record I wouldn't rule anything out."

Albon is set to hit 100 Grands Prix starts for Williams in Hungary, the last race before the summer break. To date, less than 30 drivers in F1 history have reached a century of starts for a single team.