P1racenews AI automatic summary:
Williams has achieved a major step in the development of its 2026 F1 challenger, but still faces ongoing issues that will hinder its performance, according to reports.
According to reports, Williams has made progress in developing its 2026 Formula 1 car, but is still facing issues that may affect its performance. The team decided to skip a test in Barcelona to focus on the FW48’s development. There have been reports that the car failed three mandatory crash tests and is overweight by 20-30 kilograms. Rectifying these problems may lead to financial challenges due to the cost cap implications. Despite passing one crash test, weight issues still persist, prompting the team to prioritize this before the Bahrain testing. Williams, potential dark horses, faced setbacks after their improved performance in 2025, finishing fifth in the Constructors’ Championship. With ongoing challenges, the team must address the issues to stay competitive in the upcoming season.
