Vowles: Williams building foundations for moving forward

Today in New York, Williams launched the car that Thailand's Alex Albon and American Logan Sargeant will campaign. The car's 2024 livery tipped its hat to the team's incredible legacy in F1.

James Vowles, Team Principal, Williams Racing: "It is a significant milestone to unveil the 2024 livery at an iconic location in New York City. The FW46 has been the focus of the team for many months and there is still a tremendous effort going in from everyone at Grove to deliver our challenger for this year.

“As we look to build on the momentum from last season, we have a driver line-up in Alex and Logan that is capable of consistently fighting for points while helping lead our development for the future.

“Since joining Williams Racing a year ago, I’ve seen this team pull together to overcome a number of challenges and claim seventh in the Constructors’ Championship, which meant a great deal for everyone involved. We’ve also shown the world that we’re building the foundations for moving forward.

“We’ll continue to strengthen the team both on and off the track through improvements to our infrastructure, investing in our people, and attracting fantastic new partners like Komatsu.

“Of course, there’s still a long way to go on this journey together but I know our fans, partners and everyone at Grove HQ is pushing as one to create new history for this iconic team. It will take time, but everyone’s support is integral to help drive us towards success in the years to come. I’m looking forward to seeing what this season holds for us," concluded Vowles in the team press release.

Expected to lead Williams in 2024, Albon said of the year ahead: “Coming off the back of a very positive year we’re hoping to build on our progress into 2024, working hard to make some good steps forward in performance.

"We’ve asked a lot of the team and the factory to get this car where it needs to be, and we’ve also slightly changed the philosophy of the car, so I’m interested to see if we can improve some of the characteristics it has historically had. It will require an adjustment in driving style but I’m confident it will be a change for the better.”

Needing to repay the faith shown in him by Vowles and the team to retain him after a poor F1 rookie season, Sargeant commented: "After unveiling this great livery I’m now itching to get behind the wheel of the FW46 and keep developing as a driver.

"I’ve had a productive off-season that has allowed me to prepare both physically and mentally for the year ahead. Taking the time to properly reflect on my rookie season, there’s been a lot of lessons learned and experience gained that can only benefit me as I enter this new season.

“I know my goals this year. I’ll be looking to build on the progress I’ve made since being a part of the Williams Racing family. I intend to help contribute more to the team’s success. Everyone at Grove has been working tirelessly to deliver the FW46 over the winter break.

"I can’t thank them enough for their hard work and the support they’ve given me. Hopefully we can achieve some great results together in 2024," said Sargeant.