Williams' profits motor ahead despite track woes

It may have toiled on the track this year, but Williams Grand Prix has taken the chequered flag by driving a sharp uplift in its first half profits.

The UK-based group, whose Formula One drivers are Pastor Maldonado (above) and Bruno Senna, has diversified away from its reliance on Grand Prix by striking deals with car firms, such as Jaguar, to sell them its energy efficiency and safety technology.

Williams grew net profits from £1.9m to £6.6m over the six months to 30 June, although this was inflated by a one-off payment from the terms of renewing its participation in F1. Turnover jumped 57 per cent to £73m. Williams is way back in eighth place in the constructors' championship.