Pre-season Formula 1 testing has always been just that—testing. Results must be taken with caution, analyzed, and interpreted, always remembering that no team can truly know their rivals’ programs, fuel loads, or engine mappings.
With this in mind, one of the teams that impressed the most during the three days of testing in Sakhir was Williams. The team, led by James Vowles, frequently appeared in the upper part of the timesheets, especially with its newest recruit. Carlos Sainz posted strong lap times, often using the same tire compounds as the four top teams.
For this reason, McLaren team principal Andrea Stella has suggested that in 2025, teams should consider not just a Top 4 in the Constructors’ Championship but even a Top 5 or Top 6.
**Mind games? Probably.** In the Williams camp, however, Carlos Sainz has taken on the role of firefighter, extinguishing—positively speaking—the enthusiasm sparked by Andrea Stella – “We always speak well of each other because we both wish each other the best. I think he would also like to see Williams at the top this year. But honestly, I think it’s still too early for us. I don’t believe the team has made the necessary step forward to fight with the top teams already this season.”
According to the former Ferrari driver, the FW47 has made significant progress compared to last year’s car. After all, Williams finished ninth in the Constructors’ standings in 2024. It’s unlikely they could have recovered at least four positions in the final year of a regulatory cycle that has remained largely unchanged since 2022.
“Of course, the car has improved, and we’re heading in the right direction, but it’s too early to say. Obviously, in testing, you could see that I was trying to go fast—something that usually doesn’t happen during tests. I’m sure the top teams haven’t tried to do the same yet,” Carlos Sainz concluded.
As many within Williams mentioned before the Bahrain tests, the Grove-based team is focused on building a solid foundation for 2026, a year of technical revolution when every team will have a real chance to move up the grid if they develop innovative and, above all, correct solutions.
A 2025 Formula 1 season of preparation, but one that could still bring more than a few satisfactions to James Vowles and his team. After all, when you sign one of the best drivers on today’s grid, it’s only natural to hope for immediate progress.
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