Drivers react to team’s radical decision on F1 testing

Williams’ drivers Carlos Sainz and Alex Albon reacted on social media to the news that the team will not compete in the closed pre-season test to be held in Barcelona next week.

The British team will miss the first test under Formula 1’s new technical rules. Related media state that Williams has recently had difficulty passing the FIA’s mandatory crash tests and has therefore decided not to take to the track in Barcelona.

A special five-day test is planned for next week at the Barcelona circuit, with each team able to practice for three days. Williams will instead carry out a series of internal tests, including a VTT (Virtual Test Track) programme, to prepare the FW48 for the first official test in Bahrain and the start of the season in Melbourne.

Pilots shared the team’s statement on their Instagram stories. Sainz’s article is as follows:

“We are determined to work until the end! I can’t wait to hit the track soon!”

Albon, who is preparing for his fifth season with Williams, added:

“It’s not the start of the year we wanted, but it’s what happens when you push yourself to your limits! Full concentration forward!”

Despite the optimism of the drivers, missing some of the pre-season testing represents a serious setback and failure for Williams.