Nyck de Vries is the first Rolex Testimonee of 2026, a fact he hasn’t disclosed on his social accounts yet, though his signing is confirmed by the brand. It is the latest sign that, while Rolex may have exited Formula 1 as a series sponsor, it continues to sponsor Formula 1 drivers.
This is an interesting strategy for Rolex, as its motor-sports sponsorship has become a balancing act for a brand placing greater emphasis than ever on protecting the planet, and concerns grow over the sport’s carbon footprint. It exited Formula 1 in 2024 following a dispute over contract length, as first reported by Coronet, with F1 seeking a 10-year renewal and Rolex unwilling to commit beyond five.
Nearly 60 years later, Rolex still sponsors F1 legend Jackie Stewart. A Rolex brand ambassador since 1968, Sir Stewart is Rolex’s longest-standing relationship in motor sports. More recent names in Formula 1 include Mark Webber, a Rolex Testimonee since 2017; and Jenson Button, since 2022.
De Vries, a 31-year-old from the Netherlands, is the first driver signed by Rolex since the brand left Formula 1. He made a points-scoring debut with Williams at the 2022 Italian Grand Prix and then competed for the AlphaTauri team the following season. Beyond Formula 1, he has also competed in the electric series, winning the Formula E world title in 2020–21. By sponsoring a Formula E champion, the Perpetual Planet brand maintains ties across categories, particularly in clean energy.