Williams has welcomed George Russell’s vote of confidence but cautioned against underestimating Mercedes’ operational advantage as Formula 1 teams prepare for 2026.
The Grove-based squad lies fifth in the Constructors’ Championship, with drivers Alex Albon and Carlos Sainz spearheading the midfield charge under boss James Vowles.
Vowles’ ambitions stretch further, though, as he endeavours to restore Williams to its former glory and clinch a Constructors’ title for the first time since 1997.
A lofty goal, shared by drivers and stakeholders alike, as the team aims for a spectacular return to the front.
Russell, formerly of Williams and now with the Silver Arrows, believes his old team – powered by Mercedes engines – could emerge as a strong contender under the 2026 regulations.
He also warned Mercedes not to underestimate any rival next season, pointing to Williams and other teams that have already fully committed to 2026.
Vowles welcomed Russell’s praise but urged caution, stressing the ongoing challenges Williams faces in matching Mercedes’ operational efficiency.
“I think he’s very kind, but there is a but to it,” he told The Race.
“I know how efficient Mercedes is in all the structures and systems, I know how much further forward we’re having to pull our [production] dates relative to them in order to achieve it.
“So, if you treat it as the efficiency per minute you can spend in different infrastructures, and that includes wind tunnel, we’re still not where we need to be.
“That is the simple truth behind it, but I do think you’ll see a step forward from us, because we really have put a lot of focus into what we’re doing for ’26.”
Williams’ road to 2026: Bold ambitions amid lingering challenges
As Vowles explained, the 2026 regulations present a fresh start but also expose the lingering inefficiencies Williams must overcome to truly compete.
“Treat it this way; it’s a clean sheet of paper and that’s why it presents opportunity,” he continued.
“But the efficiencies, or the inefficiencies we still carry, which we are chomping through but not quick enough for ’26, are still there.
“So it’s correct, we’ll have a little bit of a head start and with the ATR change a head start there, but not so much that others couldn’t catch up.”
Having recently committed his future to Williams with a new three-year contract, Vowles made clear his ambitious vision for the team’s trajectory.
The ex-Mercedes Strategy Director acknowledged the scale of the challenge ahead but emphasised the shared determination to reach the very top.
“It is bold, but that’s why I signed here,” he added.
“I didn’t sign here to be mid-grid or anything less than fighting for world championships.
“It’s bold because we’re nowhere near in the state to do that today – but the investment we are doing is for that – it’s not to finish fourth or third.
“It is to be able to win world championships again, and that’s the clear statement of intent from both parties on that one, it’s just the time it takes.
“The reason why I feel it’s bold is because we’ve taken a team that was, frankly, nearly last year.
“We’re doing better this year, but we’re nowhere near the front; that’s a monumental leap.”
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