Dec.6 (GMM) Williams boss James Vowles says the team’s unexpected rise to fifth in the 2025 constructors’ championship came despite the FW47 being developed for only “a few weeks” last winter as focus shifted almost entirely to the all-new 2026 regulations.
“If you had asked me a year ago what the best possible scenario for 2025 was, I wouldn’t have said fifth place or three podiums,” he told AS in Abu Dhabi.
“You have to remember that we are focused on 2026, and this year’s car only took up a few weeks of the winter.”
Vowles admitted the midfield’s volatility – including Aston Martin’s collapse to ninth – also played a role, but highlighted the team’s strong execution and the arrival of Carlos Sainz from Ferrari.
Spaniard Sainz, who took podiums in Baku, Qatar and the Austin sprint, surprised his boss with how he responds to stress.
“The start of the year took Carlos longer than I expected – it’s a very different car from the Ferrari,” Vowles said. “But the results speak for themselves.
“When you put him under pressure, he improves. He needs pressure to perform better – I didn’t know that.”
He described moments where Sainz delivered on demand: “When something has gone slightly wrong in qualifying, he’s in the garage and goes out without pressure. The engineers raise their voices, and instead of raising his, he relaxes because he has it under control.
“You put the driver under pressure to do a hot lap, or the final laps in Qatar with problems in the Williams – again he managed it perfectly.”
While Sainz’s season has been eye-catching, Alex Albon’s has been more anonymous – a mix of quiet points finishes and weekends where he struggled to escape Q1.
But Vowles insists there is “no problem” with the Thai driver’s speed.
“Alex had pace in Las Vegas and Qatar. If he didn’t have pace, we’d have a problem,” he said. “There was a lack of consistency, and small details are now decisive. He lost a tenth at Turn 1, there were problems getting the tyres up to temperature – and that makes the difference between finishing 16th or getting into Q3.”
Vowles said Albon’s recent dip was setup related.
“We were a bit off-track with Alex’s setup, and his car was pushing the limits more, while Carlos’s was more manageable. It’s a specific response to the last few races.”
The Monaco Grand Prix, often called the crown jewel of Formula 1, is one of the most prestigious races in the world and part of the Triple Crown of Motorsport alongside the Indy 500 and 24 Hours of Le Mans. Starting in 2026, the race will move from May to June to better align with the F1 schedule, placing the Canadian Grand Prix earlier in the season. Grand Prix Tours has taken care of all of the details and has arranged an amazing motorsports vacation. Call 949 719 3350 to book your trip or to contact us with any questions.
SHOW PACKAGES
Join Grand Prix Tours for the 2026 Austrian Grand Prix at the iconic Red Bull Ring; a fan favorite that rarely disappoints. Set in Austria’s stunning Styrian Hills, this scenic circuit is famous for its dramatic elevation changes and thrilling uphill turns. We’ve planned every detail so you can relax and enjoy an unforgettable motorsport getaway.
SHOW PACKAGES
Join Grand Prix Tours at the legendary Silverstone Circuit for the 2026 British Grand Prix; the birthplace of modern F1. This isn’t just race weekend; you’ll visit the British Motor Museum, explore the Silverstone Museum, and enjoy an exclusive behind-the-scenes tour of the Oracle Red Bull Racing Factory. With over 40 years of experience hosting this trip, we’ve thought of every detail for the ultimate F1 fan experience.
SHOW PACKAGES
Join Grand Prix Tours for the 32nd Goodwood Festival of Speed in the South of England, a long summer weekend celebrating the greatest moments in motorsport. Held at the magnificent Goodwood House, this world-renowned event showcases an unparalleled collection of historic and modern racing cars from the past 125 years. We’ve taken care of every detail so you can enjoy an unforgettable motorsport getaway.
SHOW PACKAGES
Grand Prix Tours delivers the ultimate 2026 Belgian Grand Prix experience on July 19 at the legendary Spa-Francorchamps. Famed for its stunning setting, rich racing history, and iconic corners like Eau Rouge, Spa offers one of Formula 1’s most thrilling weekends, complete with unpredictable weather and nonstop action. With only a one-year contract in place, this could be your last chance to witness F1 at this historic circuit.
SHOW PACKAGES
Experience Northern Italy like a true motorsport insider on our Italian Extravaganza, the perfect lead-in to the Italian Grand Prix. Journey through the heart of Italy’s legendary supercar region with exclusive access and behind-the-scenes insights into iconic brands like Ferrari, Lamborghini, Maserati, Pagani, and more. Along the way, enjoy a unique visit to a family-run balsamic vinegar producer for an authentic tasting experience. For car enthusiasts, this is the ultimate way to elevate your Italian Grand Prix weekend.
SHOW PACKAGES
Join Grand Prix Tours in Northern Italy for the unforgettable 2026 Italian Grand Prix at Monza. With over 95 years of racing history, passionate Ferrari fans, and electrifying post-race celebrations, Monza delivers one of the most thrilling weekends in motorsport. Enjoy a seamless experience with accommodations in stunning Como, airport and track transfers, and an exclusive pre-race dinner with a racing celebrity, backed by our 40+ years of expertise at this iconic event.
SHOW PACKAGES
Join Grand Prix Tours in Austin, Texas for the high-energy 2026 United States Grand Prix at Circuit of the Americas. Experience nonstop action on one of Formula 1’s most exciting tracks, featuring dramatic elevation changes, thrilling overtakes, and a packed race weekend. Off the track, enjoy a festival atmosphere with live music, world-famous BBQ, and buzzing nightlife. Your Grand Prix Tours package includes a fully curated race weekend, highlighted by exclusive access to our private F1 Celebrity Talk Show, where guests gain insider insights and behind-the-scenes perspectives. With demand soaring and this event quickly becoming a modern American racing tradition, now is the time to secure your spot for an unforgettable Austin Grand Prix experience.
SHOW PACKAGES