by Harry Hunter | Thu 03 Sep 2026
Komatsu and Atlassian Williams F1 Team renew and expand partnership
Komatsu and Atlassian Williams F1 Team have extended their global partnership beyond 2026.
Under the extended agreement, Komatsu becomes Williams’ Official Hydraulic Innovation Partner, with the two companies set to work more closely on advanced engineering initiatives, knowledge exchange and the development of future engineering talent.
The relationship between the two organisations began in the 1990s, when Komatsu manufactured gear components for Williams’ 1996 and 1997 Formula 1 World Championship-winning cars. Following the renewal of the partnership in 2024, the latest agreement will further expand the technical collaboration, with Komatsu engineers set to contribute to the development of key components for future Williams F1 cars.
Komatsu’s experience in hydraulic technology and advanced manufacturing will form an important part of the relationship. The company has developed hydraulic systems for a wide range of demanding applications, from autonomous mining trucks to construction and forestry machinery, and says the engineering challenges involved share common ground with the demands of motorsport, where precision, reliability and performance are critical.
The extended partnership will also continue the Komatsu Williams Engineering Academy (KWEA), which welcomes 10 engineering students from around the world each year for mentorship, hands-on experience and access to technical learning modules. The academy will continue to recruit students through Formula Student and Formula SAE initiatives worldwide. A new Komatsu Williams Leadership Academy will also be introduced, providing leadership development opportunities for the next generation of Komatsu leaders from around the world.
From 2027, Komatsu will further expand its involvement across Formula 2, Formula 3 and F1 Academy, supporting initiatives aimed at encouraging future engineers and strengthening links between industry and motorsport. Komatsu branding will continue to feature across the Atlassian Williams F1 Team’s global platform.
The extended agreement was formally announced and signed at a ceremony in Komatsu City, Japan, on 2 September. Senior representatives from both organisations attended the event, including Takuya Imayoshi, President and CEO of Komatsu Ltd, and James Vowles, Team Principal of Atlassian Williams F1 Team.
Takuya Imayoshi, President and CEO, Komatsu Ltd, said: “Komatsu has always believed that the greatest engineering advances come from tackling complex challenges alongside trusted partners. Our relationship with Atlassian Williams F1 Team has been built on a shared commitment to perseverance, collaboration and authenticity; values that have connected our organizations for decades. As we deepen this partnership, we are creating new opportunities to exchange knowledge, develop future engineering talent and accelerate the ideas that will help shape the next generation of technology. This is a natural extension of Komatsu's commitment to engineering excellence and our ambition to create value for customers and society through innovation.”
James Vowles, Team Principal, Atlassian Williams F1 Team, said: “After three successful seasons together and a relationship which dates back to our last Championship-winning cars, it is fantastic to be expanding our partnership with Komatsu as Atlassian Williams F1 Team approaches its 50th anniversary. The relationship with Komatsu is truly special and embodies our approach to working with partners who share our values, believe in our journey and can help deliver success on and off track. We look forward to taking the partnership to the next level in 2027 and beyond.”
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