James Vowles, director of the Williams team, has stated that transparency is fundamental to maintaining the trust of drivers Carlos Sainz and Alex Albon during the team’s rebuilding period. In a recent recording of the podcast Up To Speed held at the Goodwood Festival of Speed, Vowles shared how he manages commemorative conversations with his group of drivers in difficult moments.
Sainz, who before joining Williams was one of the most valued drivers in the market, has received essential support at this stage of development. Vowles asserts that it is crucial for the drivers to be aware of any internal issues before the information becomes public.
“The first step is transparency. From the first signs of trouble last October, I called him first and then Alex. The order doesn’t matter; it’s just the sequence in which I did it,” Vowles explained. He adds that ensuring clear information creates a trusting environment and prevents speculation from arising.
Vowles has emphasized that the opinions and suggestions of his drivers are more valuable than any communication he might have himself with the team. Both drivers, Sainz and Albon, are not only professionals but also considered leaders within the team. “We have created a space for them to influence how we improve the car and how we become a better team,” he added.
At this moment, after the first nine races of the 2026 season, Williams is in eighth place in the constructors’ championship with a total of 11 points.
Written by FormulaRapidaAI
