Alex Albon has confirmed a major difference between his contract and teammate Carlos Sainz’s following another difficult race at the Formula 1 Dutch Grand Prix.
Williams’ performance has spiralled in recent months, and the Dutch Grand Prix is unfortunately no exception to the fast growing pattern of decline.
While Albon progressed to Q2 by the smallest of margins, Sainz finished P17 and was eliminated. Albon then registered the slowest time of Q2.
The race proved to be equally disappointing as the FW48’s flaws were brutally exposed, Sainz finishing two laps down on the leaders.
Albon, however, had it the worst of the two, as the teammates collided in the latter stages of the race, forcing him to retire and continue Williams’ miserable run of performance.
Albon demands “a reaction” from Williams
The team’s difficulties came shortly after both drivers extended their contracts at Grove, reaffirming their belief in the team despite the turmoil.
While Sainz has signed a multi-year agreement, Albon has opted for a one-year extension, explaining the difference between the two teammates’ contracts.
“On my side, I want to see a reaction,” Albon told media including Motorsport Week.
“I want to see what the team can deliver. I want to see a strong bounce back from this year.
“We talk about the performance of the car, but there has been a lot of areas as a team that we haven’t delivered on.
Albon acknowledged that extensive work is underway to address Williams’ issues, but hinted at the major rethink required across multiple areas to improve the team’s competitiveness.
“I know JV [James Vowles, team principal] and everyone at the team is doing a huge effort to correct these issues.
“But it’s not just one single thing, this year, it’s been quite a few things.
“There’s still work that needs to be done.”
Albon’s candid revelation over the reasons behind why he has only opted for a one year extension is telling.
He has been integral to Williams’ fightback over the last several seasons and clearly believes he has enough to stock to effectively put Williams on notice. Whether this pays off however, remains to be seen.
As F1 prepares for the Italian Grand Prix this weekend, the team will be braced for yet another difficult weekend, with pressure now ramping up both on and off the track.
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