Williams F1 commends Franco Colapinto’s impressive performance, with the Argentine securing a vital point in the scorching Austin heat.
Sven Smeets, Williams F1’s Sporting Director, detailed how the Grove team approached their strategy for the Austin race, where track temperatures exceeded 40 degrees on the Texan asphalt.
“Track temperatures were higher on Sunday than for the rest of the week, so tyre management was always going to be key. We decided to split the cars on different tyres at the start to increase our chances of scoring points in the race,” Smeets explained.
“Alex started on the medium tyres but was unfortunately hit from behind at Turn 1 and couldn’t avoid colliding with Ocon. We managed to bring him in under the safety car to change the front wing, but permanent damage to the floor ended his race before it had even properly begun.”
The Belgian also reflected on Franco Colapinto’s impressive race: “Franco started on hard tyres and lost a few positions after the start. When the two front runners pitted and given how the race unfolded, we decided to try and make a one-stop strategy work.”
“An excellent first long stint kept him in the hunt for points, and when Magnussen pitted for a second time, we brought Franco in for his only stop. He rejoined ahead, and from there, he displayed great pace until the end, securing 10th place and a valuable point.”
Smeets expressed frustration that Esteban Ocon took the fastest lap away from Colapinto but welcomed the end of this rule next year: “It’s unfortunate to have lost the fastest lap point, but Alpine F1 responded with Ocon, who was out of contention for points. We won’t have this issue in 2025.”
“We still need to understand our poor performance on Saturday, but with Sunday’s strong race pace, we’re looking forward to next week’s race in Mexico.”
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Williams lauds Colapinto’s stellar form as he snags vital point Williams lauds Colapinto’s stellar form as he snags vital point
