Williams’ FW47: A Game-Changer Compared to FW46

Williams’ FW47 represents a major leap forward, with Vowles highlighting its vast improvements over the FW46 in design, performance, and execution.

James Vowles, Williams F1 team principal, sees ‘a world of difference’ between the FW47 and its predecessor.

In 2024, Williams arrived with an overweight car after altering its concepts and undergoing a radical overhaul of its production processes, meaning it was rushed at the last minute to get the car ready for pre-season testing.

Several months were spent bringing the FW46 down to the weight limit before performance upgrades could be introduced, with the only true performance package scheduled for Round 15, the Dutch Grand Prix.

However, speaking to the media at the FW47 launch in Silverstone, Vowles revealed that significant progress had been made with the new car.

“First of all, the weight—the car will be at the weight limit.”

“Secondly, as I said, we have demonstrated to the world that we can build a car to the required standards and have it leave the garage in a minute, which marks two very different changes from where we were last year.”

Vowles did admit, however, that the timing was tight.

“This car was finished at 4 a.m. last night. All components were assembled, and we sent the car here just a few hours later.”

“That’s a timeline most organizations wouldn’t allow, but it’s a demonstration of our commitment and purpose.”

Speaking in more detail about the progress made between the FW46 and the new FW47, he added:

“The quality of fit, the quality of construction, the quality of the product are a huge step forward, and the package is another huge step forward—and we haven’t even touched on aerodynamics, suspension, and performance yet.”

“Every area I look at on this car is, to me, a world of difference compared to what we had before. We haven’t finished our journey, and I’m not here to say we are the benchmark, but we are on the right path to getting back there.”

Vowles has made no secret of his long-term vision for Williams, implementing foundational changes to ensure future success and gain an advantage ahead of the new regulations in 2026.

Reviving a sleeping giant of F1 is no easy task, but Vowles is confident in the progress made.

“Within the organization, we have spent these past years—and will continue in 2025—digging down to the foundations and making numerous changes.”

“Looking at a few statistics, we have grown from around 700 to over 1,050 people, with more hires still to come. We have top-tier names who have joined us and are now alongside me—something we didn’t have before.”

“I believe we have top-class drivers who are leaders, capable of helping and supporting me on this journey.”

“That will always give you confidence because instead of feeling like you have points of failure, you now have an organization and structure around you with the depth needed to perform on the global stage.”

Will Williams be affected by the FIA’s changes to wing flexibility? According to Vowles, yes—his team had joined the race initiated by McLaren.

“Originally, I believe it was at the seventh Grand Prix that they were supposed to change it.”

“But we pointed out that Monaco was in between, and it was really difficult for teams to have the right stock of front wings for Monaco. So, it was postponed to the race after Monaco.”

“Our wing, in fact, was already in the production pipeline when the rules changed. As a result, in terms of exploiting this area, I think you’ll find that all teams are doing what they can, but some will simply be further ahead than others.”

“I don’t think we are leaders in this particular area. However, what I can also say is that the rule change doesn’t particularly bother us and will likely have a greater impact on others.”

What were Sainz’s first on-track impressions? Was he able to compare it to his 2024 Ferrari?

“It’s not as simple as saying there’s more downforce; it’s a balance characteristic, particularly what he’s looking for, and we already got a handle on it with the post-Abu Dhabi tests.”

“The other element he was looking for in the car… actually, several small elements, like how to improve starts—that has progressed. Then, how to enhance the feel inside the car, how to improve its adjustment and functionality—that will come with time.”

“He was satisfied with various aspects, such as braking stability, but it was really the balance, particularly in high-speed corners, that we need to work on. The good news is that we are heading in that direction. And then, how the car behaves, certain phases with the tires wearing more and more.”

Finally, and perhaps most intriguingly, when asked about the value of Sainz’s technical knowledge from Ferrari and its potential benefit to technical director Pat Fry and the Grove-based design department, Vowles was adamant that any solution to the car’s issues had to come from within.

“Even if Carlos came forward with something, I would just throw it out and destroy it. Everything has to be internal—and it is! Otherwise, that’s the fastest way to lose your way.”