P1racenews AI automatic summary:
Williams boss James Vowles has revealed that the team is poised to “struggle” next term as it aims to hit the ground running upon Formula 1’s rules overhaul in 2026. The impending regulation change is being billed as one of the biggest the series has seen as the return to lighter and smaller cars coincides […]
The impending regulation change is considered to be one of the most significant in the history of the series, as it involves a return to lighter and smaller cars alongside power unit modifications. Williams, a team that has struggled in the Constructors’ Championship standings since 2018, is among those aiming to take advantage of these changes to improve their position in the grid. Team principal Vowles has been actively expanding the personnel, hiring nearly 250 people since taking over in 2023, with the goal of bringing Williams back to competitiveness in Formula 1. Despite the team’s focus on the upcoming reset, it is anticipated that their competitive performance next season might be impacted. Vowles acknowledged that the team’s expected setbacks in 2025, despite signing driver Carlos Sainz, are not a surprise, emphasizing the long-term investment strategy aimed towards success in 2026. Williams experienced a revival under Vowles’ leadership, achieving their best season since 2015 last year, but faced challenges at the start of this season due to last-minute car construction issues. Despite the initial hurdles, the team has shown improvement, securing double points in Baku and moving up in the championship standings. Vowles has acknowledged that as Williams aims for significant progress in the future, there may be setbacks and mistakes along the way due to the ambitious goals set for technological advancements.
