Williams F1 chief James Vowles defends project after weak 2026 start

Team principal James Vowles said that many positive changes at Williams are "still hidden" as the British outfit struggles in the opening year of the 2026 Formula 1 regulations. The team sits ninth in the constructors' championship with 11 points, despite a strong driver line‑up of Carlos Sainz and Alex Albon, and has not scored points since the Monaco Grand Prix.

Vowles highlighted technical issues with the FW48, citing balance problems and excess weight caused by production delays that forced the team to miss private testing in Barcelona. Recent upgrades at the Miami Grand Prix showed some progress, but the cars qualified 17th and 18th at the Hungarian Grand Prix, allowing Audi to overtake Williams in the standings.

He called the summer break an "essential pause" for the team to rest, analyse shortcomings and continue structural improvements, promising a stronger finish to the season when racing resumes at the Dutch Grand Prix.