Why Did Williams Opt for Nigel Mansell in 1985? A Strategic Analysis

The 1985 Formula 1 season saw Williams field a Williams FW10 powered by Canon Williams Honda Team engines. This decision was heavily influenced by Mansell's British passport, making him a strategic choice for several reasons. Let's delve into the history and context that led to Mansell's signing.

Lotus: The British Passport Factor

Prior to Williams, Mansell had a long history with British racing teams, including Lotus. From 1980 to 1984, Mansell drove for Lotus, a team that consistently enjoyed significant sponsorship from British companies. The team’s preference for a British driver was not a new phenomenon.

Lotus Sponsorship Timeline (1980-1984)

1980: Lotus 81 - sponsored by Essex Petroleum (a British oil company) 1981: Lotus 88 87 - sponsored by Courage (a British brewery) 1982 1983: Lotus 91 92 - sponsored by John Player (a British tobacco brand) 1984: Lotus 94T - sponsored by John Player

Through these years, Mansell’s British passport was consistently cited as a factor in securing sponsorships. For example, even when Lotus faced sponsorship issues, they managed to secure support from companies willing to back a British driver. The trend continued when Mansell joined Williams in 1985.

Williams and the 1985 Season

The Sponsorship Situation

In the 1985 season, Saudia (Saudi Arabian Airlines) dramatically reduced its sponsorship, leading to a smaller team logo on the car. This necessitated a new approach for securing support. Revealing the British driver factor once again became crucial.

Cannon as Sponsor

The Williams FW10 featured Canon Williams Honda Team branding. The title sponsorship was initially negotiated with Canon UK, rather than the Japanese Canon Inc. This arrangement was not unique, as Lotus’s Olympus engines were also supplied by Canon UK, and later, Williams would have a similar deal with Sega.

The Driver Shortlist for Williams in 1985

Derek Warwick: Already had a factory drive at Renault and was seen as a front-runner for the title. Jonathan Palmer: Had a decent record with Williams, but his 1984 season with the RAM team left much to be desired. Martin Brundle: Injured in a serious crash that severely damaged his career, leaving him with mobility issues.

Mansell, however, was the only candidate who met both the technical and financial needs of the team. He was available, experienced, and had a solid record, particularly as a test driver for Williams. Most importantly, his British passport was instrumental in securing sponsor support from Cannon UK, aligning well with their preferences.

Conclusion

Williams’s decision to give Nigel Mansell a drive in 1985 was strategic and multifaceted. The British passport was a recurring theme, ensuring continued support from key sponsors. With Saudia’s reduced involvement, relying on a British driver became critical. Mansell's availability and sponsorship credentials made him the perfect fit for the Williams FW10 in a season where finding the right driver was as vital as securing the right sponsorships.