Williams F1, England is back on track

How the Right Changes and Relentless Spirit Brought Williams F1 Back to Competitiveness

One of the longest-standing and most successful teams in Formula 1 history, Williams F1 Racing had been enduring a long period of poor results up until 2024. Years of underperformance and what seemed like a never-ending tunnel weighed heavily on the team.

In fact, the last podium finish for Williams before their recent revival came at the Belgian Grand Prix on August 29, 2021, when George Russell secured second place. That race, however, was heavily impacted by rain and concluded after only a few laps behind the safety car. Despite the unusual circumstances, the result was declared official and marked Williams’ first podium since 2017.

Now, thanks to key changes both technically and strategically — and a never-give-up attitude — the historic team is finally showing signs of resurgence on the grid.

Previously, Williams’ last “traditional” podium came in 2017, when Lance Stroll secured third place at the Azerbaijan Grand Prix after a truly incredible race. Few would have bet on him that weekend, yet a mix of fortunate circumstances and skill delivered a dream result for the British team.

These moments have been rare highlights for Williams in recent years. However, with the arrival of Carlos Sainz and the solid performances of Alexander Albon in 2025, the team seems to be making a real comeback towards the front of the grid.

While it’s still early to talk about fighting for top championship positions, 2025 already feels like a season of rebirth for Williams F1. The consistency they’ve shown deserves recognition. Sainz brings with him valuable experience from his time at Ferrari, while Albon continues to prove his talent and growth. Together, they’ve formed a strong and balanced duo — quick, reliable, and crucial in guiding the technical development of the car.

Comparison Between Williams F1 Racing Seasons: 2024 vs 2025

Let’s take a look at some clear data to understand the progress Williams F1 has made from 2024 to 2025. Starting with the Constructors’ Championship: in 2024, the team faced an extremely difficult season, finishing 9th overall with just 17 points—12 scored by Alexander Albon and 5 by Franco Colapinto. Logan Sargeant, who was later replaced by Colapinto, failed to score any points.

In 2025, the situation has changed dramatically. With just over half the season completed, Williams is currently 5th in the Constructors‘ Standings with 70 points—more than 50 points ahead of their total for the entire 2024 season. Albon is sitting 8th in the Drivers’ Championship with 54 points, outperforming his teammate Carlos Sainz, who has scored 16 points. Sainz’s season has been affected by reliability issues in Austria and a first-lap crash in Melbourne, limiting his consistency.

The team’s strategy is clearly focused on long-term growth. Backed by solid sponsorship from brands like Atlassian and Duracell, which strongly believe in the new direction. A key figure in this transformation is Team Principal James Vowles, who took charge in January 2023. Formerly the chief strategist at Mercedes AMG F1, Vowles was instrumental in their dominant era with Lewis Hamilton and Valtteri Bottas. His five-year deal (although specific terms haven’t been publicly disclosed) reflects Williams’ commitment to rebuilding and reshaping the team over the medium-to-long term.

Whats new on the 2025 car

Williams Racing has made significant strides with their 2025 Formula 1 car, the FW47, introducing a series of technical updates aimed at enhancing performance and competitiveness. Here’s an overview of the main developments:

Aerodynamic Enhancements

• Sidepod Redesign: The FW47 features a more progressive sidepod profile, with a smoother ramp-down towards the rear. This design improves airflow management and enhances aerodynamic efficiency.
• Floor and Vortex Generators: The floor edges have been re-profiled, incorporating more aggressive vortex generators. These changes aim to optimize airflow under the car, increasing downforce and stability.

Mechanical and Structural Updates

• Rear Suspension Upgrade: Williams transitioned from the 2023 Mercedes pullrod rear suspension to the 2024 pushrod configuration. This update enhances mechanical grip and rear-end stability. [2]
• Weight Reduction: Efforts have been made to reduce the car’s weight, contributing to improved overall performance and handling.

Performance and Development Strategy

• Driver Feedback Integration: While some upgrades were developed without direct driver input, the team has increasingly incorporated feedback from drivers like Carlos Sainz to fine-tune the car’s performance.

• Long-Term Focus: Under Team Principal James Vowles, Williams is balancing current performance improvements with preparations for the 2026 regulation changes, ensuring sustainable competitiveness.

These updates reflect Williams Racing’s commitment to returning to the forefront of Formula 1 competition, combining aerodynamic refinements with mechanical advancements and strategic planning.

Whats next, dear Williams Racing?

Williams F1, a fully renewed and currently resurging team, now rightfully finds itself in the upper part of the standings. However, it will need to maintain its performance and prove the true strength of the project in the second half of the season. The real test will come next year, when the new technical regulations will take effect. A crucial moment to show how solid and cohesive this new long-term vision really is.

But sticking to the 2025 season, there’s growing optimism. It would be a joy to see that all-blue car back on the podium again. According to whispers from the paddock, the next three circuits on the calendar could be particularly favorable to Williams, given how well the current car adapts to certain track characteristics. Time will tell…

F1 Williams Website: https://www.williamsf1.com/?srsltid=AfmBOoqU9SFwhlCPVMNaeA_bwZEz5-xh0z2bGALEtl745FP-lcCGEqDh