As the 2026 Formula 1 season approaches, the Williams F1 team has exciting news regarding its sponsorship lineup. The team announced a new multi-year partnership with Estrella Galicia 0,0, a non-alcoholic Spanish beer brand that has been a steadfast supporter of driver Carlos Sainz throughout his racing career. This deal follows the recent departure of Santander, a former sponsor influential in Sainz's journey in the sport.
"We are thrilled to welcome Estrella Galicia 0,0 to the Williams team," said James Vowles, team principal of Williams. The collaboration signifies a new chapter for both the team and the brand, coinciding with Williams racing into a new era with an updated car and regulations in 2026.
Estrella Galicia has maintained a close relationship with Sainz since his junior racing days, beginning in 2013. The brand's logos have been visible on Sainz’s helmet during his performances across teams like Toro Rosso, Renault, McLaren, and Ferrari. Known for their loyalty, Estrella Galicia even featured on Sainz's crash helmet during his debut season with Williams in 2025, where he celebrated two podium finishes.
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"Our journey in motorsport has found a perfect partner in Williams," expressed Ignacio Rivera, executive president of Estrella Galicia’s parent company Corporación Hijos de Rivera. "This partnership goes beyond sponsorship; it represents the merging of two organizations dedicated to competition and innovation, emphasizing respect for history and talent development."
With the upcoming season, Estrella Galicia branding will prominently appear on the team's FW48 car, notably on the halo and rear wing endplate. Fans can also expect to see the logos on the helmets of not only Sainz but his teammate, Alex Albon. This integration highlights the brand’s commitment to furthering its presence in F1.
Williams confirmed the agreement via an official statement, noting that Estrella Galicia 0,0 would be available in the team's hospitality unit during European races. "With an all-new car, new regulations, and a new race in Madrid, there’ll be plenty for Atlassian Williams F1 Team to celebrate with Estrella Galicia 0,0 this season," emphasized Vowles.
This new alliance comes shortly after it was revealed that Williams had ended its partnership with Santander. The Spanish bank had a notable relationship with Sainz, supporting him through his tenure at Ferrari and marking the conclusion of a deal initiated at a post-season test in Abu Dhabi in December 2024.
In a statement regarding their exit, a Williams spokesperson expressed gratitude: "We would like to thank Santander for their support and partnership over the past year – our most successful season since 2016 – and wish them well for the future."
Santander, in turn, acknowledged the professionalism shown by Williams throughout their partnership. "We appreciate the collaboration over the past year and wish them continued success in the future," stated a representative from the bank.
As the team prepares for the 2026 season, it has since partnered with Barclays as the official banking partner, suggesting a strategic shift in their sponsorship framework.
The upcoming season looks promising for both Williams and Carlos Sainz, as they gear up for a fresh start with new support and ambitions. Estrella Galicia's involvement is seen as a significant boost for the driver and the team, and there is widespread anticipation about how this partnership will evolve in the highly competitive world of Formula 1.
