Williams miss Barcelona shakedown
The 2026 season started on the worst possible note for Williams, as delays with the FW48 project meant the team did not show up for the Barcelona shakedown. It was a significant misstep for the Grove-based outfit, which after an encouraging fifth place in the Constructors’ Championship last year went from being one of the most anticipated teams at the start of this season to one of the biggest early disappointments.
Everything postponed to Sakhir
The hope for the British team is to resolve all issues before the official tests scheduled in Sakhir, Bahrain, starting on February 11. The main problems are linked to the car failing crash tests and a potential overweight issue. Nevertheless, Williams’ absence in Spain remains a serious blow for the upcoming championship, particularly for Team Principal James Vowles.
Sainz’s message
The British engineer was the first to admit his disappointment, but he also expressed his gratitude for the support shown by Carlos Sainz. In an interview with Mundo Deportivo, James Vowles highlighted not only the driver’s determination but also his solidarity with the team. Carlos Sainz immediately reached out and asked, “What can I do to help? I’m here with you and I support you.” James Vowles added, “He’s as frustrated as I am. At this point, we’re here to race or test, or at least carry out a preliminary test given the current situation.”
This show of support from Carlos Sainz underscores the strong leadership bond forming at Williams, even as the team faces its toughest technical challenge in years. While the missed mileage in Barcelona puts the FW48 at a distinct disadvantage compared to rivals like Ferrari and Mercedes, the unity between the driver and management will be crucial for the recovery effort in Bahrain. Fans are now watching closely to see if the team can overcome these hurdles and prove that Sainz’s faith in the project is well-founded when the lights finally go out in 2026.
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