Williams F1 team struggles; drivers Sainz and Albon weigh future

Williams began the season near the back of the grid, scoring only 11 points in the first seven races and grappling with a heavy, aerodynamically inefficient car. Drivers Carlos Sainz and Alex Albon were asked about their plans at the Austrian Grand Prix. Sainz emphasized his focus on helping the team improve and said he will consider options after the summer break, while Albon declined to comment on his contract.

Team principal James Vowles announced that Williams will arrive at the Azerbaijan Grand Prix with a substantially redesigned car, with only minor upgrades applied beforehand. Sainz's father, former rally champion Carlos Sainz Sr., warned that the team faces a long rebuilding road, noting the widening performance gap across Formula 1 and tempering expectations of a rapid turnaround. He expressed hope that the upcoming Spanish Grand Prix in Madrid could boost his son's motivation.