Williams F1 Lightens FW46, Eyes Gains at Imola

Williams F1 aims to enhance the FW46‘s performance by reducing its weight, starting this weekend at Imola.

Sven Smeets, the sporting director of Williams F1, reveals that the Grove-based team is looking forward to benefiting from a reduction in the weight of the FW46 to enhance performance. Starting at Imola, the team hopes to shave off several tenths, with more improvements expected in subsequent races.

“We are eager to return to Imola following the event’s cancellation in 2023. After two sprint races in China and Miami, the first European race allows us to revert to the standard three-day format. Friday will give us the opportunity to test various settings to fine-tune the car for qualifying and the race,” notes Smeets.

“The Imola circuit is fast and features one of the longest DRS zones, yet overtaking remains challenging, which will play a role in shaping our race strategy for the weekend,” continues the Belgian, confirming that the FW46 will lose weight.

“The weight reduction measures we are implementing for the upcoming races should, hopefully, enhance the overall performance of the car. The weather forecast still indicates a very low chance of rain on Sunday, but it seems increasingly unlikely that the weather will play a significant role in this weekend’s event.”

Albon Feels Secure, Sargeant in Exploration Mode

Alex Albon will remain with Williams for several more years, following the announcement of his contract extension this Wednesday. In addition to his excitement about returning to Europe this weekend, he is pleased to enjoy internal stability.

“I’m looking forward to starting the European part of the calendar, beginning with Imola. After last year’s unfortunate flooding, it will be exciting to race here again,” stated the Thai driver.

“It’s also a great feeling to approach the weekend having announced my long-term commitment to Williams, and we’re bringing some improvements this weekend that should help reduce the weight of the car. I hope we’ll see improvements and be able to make a strong comeback.”

Logan Sargeant is set to experience Imola for the first time and is pleased about a return to a non-sprint format: “It’s great to be heading back to Imola this week. I’m eager to discover this historic circuit behind the wheel of an F1 car for the first time.”

“Returning to a standard race format after two consecutive sprints gives us the chance to prepare for the weekend and fine-tune our settings. It’s a narrow circuit where overtaking opportunities are limited, so we’ll be looking to maximize our performance during qualifying.”