Williams recruit Mercedes veteran Milner in technical shake-up

Atlassian Williams F1 Team has appointed Dan Milner as Chief Engineer, Vehicle Technology, as the Grove-based outfit looks to address a difficult start to the 2026 season

13 April 2026,

9:58AM BST

The Atlassian Williams F1 Team has moved quickly to strengthen their technical structure during the April break, confirming the appointment of Dan Milner from Mercedes-AMG Petronas F1 Team.

Milner joins with significant pedigree having spent over 20 years associated with the Brackley operation – spanning its Honda, Brawn GP and Mercedes eras.

He was part of the team through eight consecutive Constructors’ Championships between 2014 and 2021 and his most recent role was Chief Engineer for Research and Development, although he has been on gardening leave since January.

Carlos Sainz racing for Williams at the 2026 Japanese Grand Prix (Alastair Staley/LAT Images)

Outside of Formula 1, Milner has held senior design roles with Ineos Britannia in the America’s Cup bu in his new role at Williams he will report to Technical Director Matt Harman and Chief Technical Officer Pat Fry, starting with immediate effect.

“Dan brings broad experience and clear leadership,” said Harman.

“He has led major programmes across R&D and powertrains, turning ideas into performance, and he knows how to bring teams together to deliver.

“Dan will be central to our vehicle technology plan and to converting innovation into consistent performance gains on track.”

The appointment comes at a critical moment for Williams. The FW48 is understood to be more than 20kg over the minimum weight limit, hampering Alex Albon and Carlos Sainz from the outset of the new regulations era, wit the team scoring just two points from the opening three races.

Williams has a clear, ambitious plan to move forward, and I’m looking forward to bringing my experience and knowledge to help accelerate that journey.

Dan Milner

“After 20 years of association with Brackley, it’s the right moment to take on a new challenge,” said Milner.

“Williams has a clear, ambitious plan to move forward, and I’m looking forward to bringing my experience and knowledge to help accelerate that journey.”

The five-week break before the Crypto.com Miami Grand Prix gives Milner time to embed before the season resumes on May 3.

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