Winfield Stubs Out Williams Deal.
The Williams team will be forced to find a new title sponsor for next season, following the termination of its deal with Rothmans.
The tobacco company, which has adorned Williams cars with the colours of its title brand and, latterly, that of Winfield, has announced that it will not continue the relationship beyond the Japanese Grand Prix this year, despite winning two world drivers' titles.
The Williams team will be forced to find a new title sponsor for next season, following the termination of its deal with Rothmans.
The tobacco company, which has adorned Williams cars with the colours of its title brand and, latterly, that of Winfield, has announced that it will not continue the relationship beyond the Japanese Grand Prix this year, despite winning two world drivers' titles.
"In partnership with Williams F1, we have enjoyed many successes since 1994," said Mark Hulit, Marketing Director of Rothmans International, "during which time, the team has won three constructors' championships and two drivers' championships with Damon Hill and Jacques Villeneuve at the wheel.
Under Frank Williams' leadership, our partnership has been very special, and we regret that Winfield will not continue as title sponsor in 2000. However, we wish both BMW and Williams F1 every success as they make what promises to be an exciting and significant step,both for the team and the sport of Formula One.
"We look forward to a challenging 1999 Formula One season with the Winfield Williams F1 team, and drivers Ralf Schumacher and Alex Zanardi, and want to thank Frank and all the Williams F1 team for their years of dedication and outstanding professionalism during our association."
