The legendary Martini stripes will again adorn a Formula One car this season after Williams signed a multi-year title sponsor agreement with the drinks company.

Martini has long been associated with motor sport over the years, and not just F1 as the brand and distinctive striping has featured on sports cars, touring cars and World Rally Championship cars.

Luring Martini back to F1 is something of a coup for Williams who are poised to again make waves on track this season as well as off it due to the portfolio of new backers they have been acquiring.

Over the 12 days of pre-season testing, Williams – with Felipe Massa and Valtteri Bottas at the wheel – suggested they will be in the hunt for podiums early on, potentially even race wins on the back a major regulation overhaul.

That represents a significant about-turn from the worst season in the team’s history last year when the Grove-based marque collected a miserable five points.

“2014 is going to be a fascinating season, with regulation changes of this scale often shaking up the grid and creating opportunities for teams to make a good step forward,” Williams said.

“Over the winter we have proved our ambition by making a number of positive changes; we welcome a new driver pairing, new senior technical personnel, and a number of new commercial partners for 2014.

“In Martini we have a brand that shares a passion for motor racing and winning championships.

“This partnership is a milestone in our history and we look forward to working closely with Martini over the coming years.”