The 2019 Formula 1 season was better for the beleaguered Williams team than the previous year, according to deputy team principal Claire Williams who also hints of winds of change blowing through Grove.
Actually, the struggling British team scored seven points in 2018 compared to just a single point this year. While George Russell and Robert Kubica have been, way off the pace, anchored to the back of the field, amid obvious financial, supplier and spare parts issues.
But Claire Williams, daughter of team founder Sir Frank Williams, told the Guardian that 2019 was actually better, “Last year was the worst year.
“I understand why people would see this year as worse but they can’t see behind the scenes. Last year I could not see how things would get better imminently. This year Williams is in a different place entirely.
“I understand why people would see this year as worse but they can’t see behind the scenes. Last year I could not see how things would get better imminently. This year Williams is in a different place entirely.
“I know what is coming and I believe in it. Last year I didn’t really believe in it,” added Williams who revealed that a full review took place after the shambolic winter preseason, and “big changes” across the team occurred in every department.
She continued, “The changes we have made have been a lot more significant than any we have made previously. We have made big changes to operations, we have a new planning department, we have a great technical management team running aero design and also trackside.
“We are in a much better position; all the work we did last year in changing the philosophy around aero has now paid off.
“I am not about to give it up because I believe in what I am doing. I don’t let the noise get in the way. I have learned a lot about myself in these two years. I have learned I am stronger than I ever thought I was,” added Williams.
Her father Sir Frank, now out of the limelight, clearly remains in her corner despite the mounting criticism of her leadership, “Dad’s actually more supportive than ever. He has seen a side of me that maybe he didn’t expect I had.
“It’s not easy, but I have not given up. I am sure a load of people would love me to walk away but I am not going to. Dad appreciates that tenacity because he would never have given up. We don’t give up at Williams. It’s not in our nature,” concluded the 43-year-old team boss.
Big Question: What will save Williams?