After an unsuccessful stint at Red Bull and a year of inactivity, Albon accumulated all but one of the former champions’ points in 2023. Now entering his third season with Williams, he has become a desirable target for top teams such as Mercedes and Red Bull as they consider their options for 2025.
Speaking at the Williams livery launch in New York on Monday, the Thai race driver expressed optimism for the upcoming year. He stated, “Following a highly successful year, we aim to build upon our progress in 2024. We are dedicated to making significant advancements in performance through hard work.”
The new FW46 car, which is powered by Mercedes, will showcase its capabilities during a filming day in Bahrain on February 20. Official pre-season testing will then commence on February 21 in the same location.
Albon further elaborated, “We have placed high demands on the team and the factory to ensure that the car reaches its full potential. Additionally, we have slightly altered the car’s philosophy. I am curious to see if we can enhance some of its historical characteristics. Although it will require adjustments in driving style, I have confidence that it will be a positive change.”
The presentation, held at Puma’s flagship Fifth Avenue store, unveiled a new principal partnership with Japanese machinery manufacturer Komatsu. This collaboration is reminiscent of their previous work with Williams in the 1980s and 1990s, where they provided gearbox components for the championship-winning FW18 and FW19 cars.
Williams, who last clinched a title in 1997, is currently owned by U.S.-based private investment firm Dorilton Capital. The team also boasts the only American driver in Formula 1, Logan Sargeant, who is entering his second season.
Reflecting on his rookie season, Sargeant stated, “Taking the time to thoroughly assess my debut year, I have gained valuable lessons and experiences that will undoubtedly aid me in this new season.”
James Vowles, the team boss who joined from Mercedes a year ago, expressed confidence in his two drivers. He believes they have the capability to consistently compete for points and contribute to the team’s development for the future.
The 2024 F1 World Championship season will kick off with the Bahrain Grand Prix on March 2nd. (Report by Alan Baldwin)
