Williams and Racing Point are the second and third teams respectively to confirm they are putting some of their staff on furlough – an enforced absence from work –  with their drivers among those taking a pay cut.

At Williams, employees not placed on furlough will continue to work but on reduced pay as the British team – who finished last in the constructors’ championship last year – make moves to protect jobs and the team amid the challenging global situation.

Williams said in a statement: “Due to the ongoing situation, ROKiT Williams Racing is temporarily furloughing a number of employees as part of a wider range of cost-cutting measures.

“The furlough period will last until the end of May whilst senior management, and our drivers, have taken a pay cut of 20% effective from 1st April.

A Racing Point spokesperson said: “Some staff have now been placed on temporary furlough. Our drivers will also take a voluntary pay cut.”

The news comes a week after it emerged McLaren put some of their staff on furlough, while drivers Carlos Sainz and Lando Norris took a pay cut and employees who continue to work – including senior management – took a salary reduction.