P1racenews AI automatic summary:
Williams has gone down with the design route for the front-end of its 2026 F1 challenger; the FW48, that Red Bull perfected with the RB19.
Williams has chosen to follow the design path for the front-end of their 2026 Formula 1 car, the FW48, similar to Red Bull’s successful RB19. Due to delays, Williams missed the shakedown in Barcelona but finally tested the FW48 at Silverstone. Rumors of failed crash tests and overweight issues plagued the team, but these concerns were put to rest during the car’s official livery launch. Fans and media noticed missing suspension rods in digital renders, leading to questions, but on-track images clarified the design. Williams’ decision to adopt a front pull rod and rear push rod suspension layout sets them apart from F1 rivals. The FW48’s front suspension design seems inspired by Red Bull’s RB19, featuring an aggressive upper triangle for enhanced stability under braking. The car’s front wing, designed to optimize airflow, stands out as a key element in this technical era. Williams aims to focus on data collection and performance improvements as they gear up for pre-season tests in Bahrain and the Australian Grand Prix.
