Finnish Welding Equipment manufacturer Kemppi, whose UK subsidiary is Kemppi UK Ltd based in Bedford, has entered into a sponsorship agreement with Williams, one of the world’s leading F1 teams. Right after Kemppi and Williams had announced their co-operation agreement, Williams driver Pastor Maldonado won the Spanish Grand Prix in Barcelona on Sunday, 13th May 2012.

The Kemppi logo is visible on the belt of the team’s Official Reserve Driver Valtteri Bottas and the rear wing endplate of the Williams Renault FW34. Kemppi and Williams F1 will also be co-operating in the area of welding technology and equipment. Kemppi have supported Valtteri since 2008 and this agreement is a natural extension of the company’s commitment to helping talented Finnish racing drivers reach their potential.

Speaking about the partnership Anssi Rantasalo, Chief Executive Officer of Kemppi, commented; “We have been supporting Valtteri Bottas for several years and this agreement is a natural continuation of that collaboration. It is a great honour for us to be associated with the Williams F1 Team, one of the most successful teams in the history of Formula One. We are looking forward to extending our collaboration with them towards a technology partnership, as Formula One is technically demanding and welding has an important role to play.”

Sir Frank Williams, Team Principal of the Williams F1 Team, added, “We are delighted to welcome one of Finland’s most respected manufacturing companies to our portfolio of partners. They have demonstrated a strong commitment to motorsport with the support they have provided Valtteri over the past few years and the whole team is very much looking forward to working with them in the future.”