Williams did not run a shakedown at Silverstone, a strategic choice according to Vowles
Unlike the other British-based teams, Williams did not run a shakedown at Silverstone during the winter. James Vowles, the team's managing director, justified this strategic decision not to run the car at Silverstone. The FW46 took to the track today in Bahrain.
James Vowles, Team Principal of Williams, explained the strategic decision made by the British team not to take their new FW46 for a shakedown at Silverstone. The Grove-based team wanted to prioritize this week of testing in Bahrain.
Red Bull, Mercedes, McLaren, and Aston Martin have all tested their new Formula 1 cars at the Grand Prix circuit in Great Britain during one of their designated filming days allowed by the regulations.
On his part, James Vowles explained that he preferred to save one of these test days for later in the season. “We could have easily driven there, but there is a balance between doing a virtual test and Silverstone,” he said.
Silverstone, I have several feelings towards it. I worked there for several years, and sometimes we get very good things out of it. Sometimes, we drive with tires extremely wet due to windy conditions, with our stand equipment falling down, and we learn absolutely nothing,” continued the British director.
And this balance means that I would prefer to do virtual tests and then bring the car to Bahrain. And furthermore, save this filming day for later in the year when we need video sequences or to address other questions.
The FW46 took to the track today in Bahrain.
One day before the start of pre-season testing, the new car of the British team made its track debut for the first time on Tuesday in Bahrain. The team shared on its social media the garage exit of Logan Sargeant, who is competing in his second season with Williams in 2024.
The FW46 rolls out in Bahrain 🤩🇧🇭 pic.twitter.com/VTxA0ytMWT
— Williams Racing (@WilliamsRacing) February 20, 2024
