Albon criticizes Williams F1’s harsh decision to replace Sargeant mid-season. Reports suggest Liam Lawson was favored for the Williams F1 seat over others.
Alex Albon believes Williams F1’s decision to immediately part ways with Logan Sargeant is “brutal.”
Following rumors that Liam Lawson or Mick Schumacher were being considered to replace the underperforming and accident-prone American, team boss James Vowles ultimately chose Williams’ young rookie, Franco Colapinto.
“Replacing a driver mid-season is not a decision we take lightly,” Vowles said yesterday, “but we believe this gives Williams the best chance to compete for points for the rest of the season.”
“We have just introduced a significant upgrade to the car and must maximize every opportunity to score points in a remarkably tight midfield battle.”
Williams F1 has since clarified that Sargeant remains a Williams driver and could be included in other categories, possibly in IndyCar.
“We will support him as he continues his driving career in the future.”
Albon, a mainstay at Williams who experienced a similar situation at Red Bull, reacted on social media: “I know firsthand how brutal this sport can be and it’s tough to see Logan leave the team mid-season.”
“You gave it your all, brother, and it was a pleasure to be your teammate. I know that whatever you do next, you will be great.”
Logan Sargeant did not have a chance to respond in the statement released yesterday by Williams F1 at 6 PM. He did so on his own app but has since deleted his message—which was not controversial—and it read as follows:
“Hello everyone,
“After today’s news, I wanted to say that I am extremely grateful to Williams Racing for giving me my first opportunity in Formula 1.”
“I am very thankful for the support I have received from all team members since I joined the Academy in 2021.”
“Driving an F1 car for the first time in Abu Dhabi was a once-in-a-lifetime experience, and becoming the first American to score points in 30 years at Austin last season was a truly special moment.”
“I am proud to have represented such a historic team over the past two seasons. For now, I will take some time to evaluate my options before making an announcement about my future in due course.”
Thank you.”
It is said today that Lawson was indeed Vowles’ first choice for Sargeant’s seat (even before Mick Schumacher or Kimi Antonelli), but Red Bull was unwilling to release him from his reserve driver role.
Argentine Colapinto will have to vacate his seat after Abu Dhabi to make way for Carlos Sainz in 2025. The Ferrari driver will join Williams at a particularly ambitious time for the team based in Grove, which unveiled the first major car upgrade for 2024 last weekend.
Albon’s upgraded F1 was disqualified from the qualifications when the new floor was found to be illegal. Sainz said the news at Zandvoort was somewhat alarming.
“I’m going to find out what happened, yes,” Sainz stated.
“I’ll ask them and I will know for sure. It’s important.”
Vowles and Albon are nevertheless confident, especially since the team boss revealed “there will be another upgrade” before the season’s end.
“In the simulator,” Albon said, “the next upgrade seems to be an even bigger step forward.”
- You may also like>F1 Eyes Rookie Sprint Finale: Domenicali Reveals
- Also make sure you follow us on social media>Facebook and>Twitter
Albon Slams ‘Brutal’ Sargeant F1 Exit Albon Slams ‘Brutal’ Sargeant F1 Exit
