After finishing fifth in the 2025 constructors’ championship, Williams has started the 2026 season with only two points in hand. This low tally remains despite having the powerful Mercedes engine, considered the best on the grid at this time of technical change in Formula 1.
The FW48 car had a complicated development process, with four failed crash tests and a chassis homologation by the FIA that was significantly delayed, causing the team to lose the pre-season in Barcelona at the end of January.
With the design led by technical director Pat Fry and engineering director Matt Harman, the current vehicle is 28 kg too heavy. “It’s not complicated to reduce it,” said team principal James Vowles during an Australian press conference. “I already have all the engineering steps in my inbox to not only reduce weight but also to be below the limit with a decent margin.”
Vowles noted that, in a world without cost limits, he would have already implemented these improvements. Unfortunately, the current budget cap prevents immediate action, so coordination is required with the use of components throughout the season and planned upgrades.
With a five-week pause caused by the war in Iran, Williams has taken the opportunity to plan a weight reduction program. The first reduction could be seen this weekend in Miami, while a new chassis, which will require new crash tests, is expected to be presented during the summer.
The development process to achieve this final weight reduction must conclude by the Italian Grand Prix, with a potential gain of a second per lap as soon as the FW48 catches up on weight and can use ballast to improve balance and reduce tire degradation.
At the same time, Vowles has thanked the dedication of the drivers, highlighting Sainz’s communication and Albon’s natural talent for adapting to the changing race conditions.
Written by FormulaRapidaAI
