Williams Formula 1 boss James Vowles has admitted that Logan Sargeant’s current seat with the team is at “risk” as he considers other options for the drive in 2025.
Sargeant retained his seat for this season despite encountering a challenging maiden campaign that saw him score a single point compared to Albon’s 28-point haul.
The American has continued to struggle in his sophomore term, with his team-mate continuing to have an edge as Williams has struggled for pace with its FW46 car.
Vowles has conceded that he’s held discussions with Sargeant regarding his future and reiterated that he is now assessing multiple candidates to partner Alex Albon.
“We’ve had a direct conversation,” Vowles told Ski F1 “It’s a hard conversation when you do it, but the simple matter of fact is, what I’ve already explained is that he is at risk.
“That’s the simple matter of fact behind it. He has to perform above what he is; it’s a meritocracy. I’m helping him along that journey. I want him to be successful.
“But in the meantime, we are talking to a few other drivers because we have to get our ’25, ’26, ’27 line-up correct.”
Asked whether he could name the other choices, Vowles said: “Not yet. We’ll come to you when it’s ready to. I would say a few weeks, you’ll see some potential news.”
Reports emerged this month that a dispensation request had been made to the FIA from Williams to exempt Andrea Kimi Antonelli from the FIA’s minimum age rules.
The Mercedes protege has been sampling the marque’s previous cars in recent times – but the Italian, who is competing in Formula 2 – doesn’t turn 18 until August 25.
However, Vowles denied that Williams was lining up to replace Sargeant mid-season and clarified that his “few weeks” comment was referencing the coming seasons.
“What I’m talking about is ’25, ’26 drivers, nothing about this season,” Vowles highlighted.
“How do we create the right foundations going forward on things? In a few weeks, won’t be signing, it’ll be me ready to say to the world, this is where we are.
“And part of that is out of respect to Logan. I’ve given him an opportunity, and these are where he has to step up towards Alex.”
Vowles maintained the stance that Sargeant’s prospects are “within his hands” and it was not the case that the “door is shut” or the “decision is done” on his chances.
Discussion about this post