P1racenews AI automatic summary:
Williams was the only F1 team to miss the Barcelona test – just how costly has that really been? Jon Noble’s analysis…
Williams missed the first pre-season test last week, losing out on crucial track time to assess reliability, aerodynamics, and energy management for its 2026 Formula 1 car.
Team boss James Vowles admitted the need to prioritize aerodynamic and suspension testing in the upcoming Bahrain test to avoid potential mistakes.
Although Williams utilized Virtual Track Testing and driver simulators, real-world track data remains essential for full understanding and improvement.
Williams received valuable input from Mercedes on engine data, aiding its progress despite missing the initial test session.
The team remains cautious about potential surprises in Bahrain, as each track brings different challenges and demands unique learnings.
While simulators have their benefits, Williams acknowledges the importance of real-world track experience for fine-tuning its FW48 car.
In conclusion, Williams aims to make up for lost time at the Bahrain test by focusing on aerodynamics, suspension, and driver feedback to optimize its performance for the upcoming Formula 1 season.
