Williams already worries the competition

Although preseason testing should always be taken with a grain of salt, Williams’ performances are quite surprising. Andrea Stella, who closely follows other teams, says he is impressed by the improvements of the FW47. The long-term pace seems encouraging, he explains. We see that with low fuel, there are really several cars capable of achieving competitive lap times, and I think Williams is one of those cars. If McLaren is among the favorites for the titles this season, they are wary of everyone, as the competition promises to be tight.

Sector 2: The Key to Improvement for Williams

During the initial tests in Bahrain, Williams showed significant improvements, particularly in the second sector, where average speed is crucial. This sector, composed of demanding corners, was not the team’s strong point last year with the FW46. But this year, things seem to have changed. And we are obviously not the only ones to have noticed it. Williams was very strong in the second sector, which is not just an acceleration-braking sector, but also a sector with medium-speed corners. So, I think Williams may have improved in this area, explains Andrea Stella.

It is important to note that it is not just an analysis of lap times that makes Williams’ improvement credible. GPS data and overlays are essential to understand where each team stands, and Williams seems to have found a real lever to shake up the hierarchy. The first indications last year during qualifying sessions were already quite tight, emphasizes the McLaren team principal.

A top 5 or top 6 for F1 2025?

Until now, the discussions have always revolved around the top 3 battling for victory. Maybe in 2025, we’ll need to adapt our language again. It would be great for Formula 1 if we had this top 5 or top 6, states Stella. A statement that shows how close the hierarchy in F1 could become this season.

According to him, Williams could be one of the teams capable of joining the fight for these top spots. The Williams are very competitive. It’s not just what’s obvious; everyone has seen the data. And it’s interesting to note that Williams has shown a strong performance in areas where we weren’t expecting it.

A 2025 season that is uncertain but exciting

Of course, it is still too early to draw definitive conclusions. Pre-season testing is just a glimpse of what’s to come, and everything can change once the races begin. Teams are sharpening up, and surprises like Williams might make the championship even more exciting. There are fast cars, and it will be very tight in qualifying this year, predicted Andrea Stella. Early indications from last year already showed close gaps, and this year, it seems even more true.

To be closely monitored.