Robert Kubica says the Williams’ FW42 “feels a bit different” in China compared to how it performed in previous weekends, as the team strives to reduce its deficit.
Williams has struggled in Formula 1 this season with its FW42 substantially off the pace in Australia and Bahrain, as the team tried to understand its weaknesses.
Williams remained at the rear of the pack during Friday practice in China, but Kubica finished ahead of George Russell in both of the sessions, 2.7s behind pacesetter Valtteri Bottas.
Kubica had spoken in Bahrain of his ill-feeling with the FW42, commenting how he was a “passenger” and was focusing on not spinning, but exuded more confidence in China.
“Generally, the car feels a bit different to the last two weekends so that is a good sign,” said Kubica.
“Now we have to look at the data and see what to do but the balance is quite different to the previous two events.
“The characteristics of the car have changed, and it feels like it is responding differently.”
Russell added that Williams should be closer to the tail-end of the midfield compared to at the opening two rounds.
“The long run pace seems better than the qualifying pace for me, I am struggling with the single lap, but it’s my first day and I’m looking forward to tomorrow,” he said.
“We seem closer as a team to everybody else than the previous two races, so we are heading in the right direction.
“We have to make the most of it, keep pushing, understanding the car, and see what we can do tomorrow.”
Williams is the only team yet to score a point this season.
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