Williams has arrived at the Azerbaijan Grand Prix with a major upgrade package focused on weight reduction and aerodynamic changes. But the question remains: is it too little, too late? After long declaring that the 2026 regulations were the main target, the team has tumbled backwards in the season they promised to leap forward.
Last year, Williams finished fifth in the constructors' championship and scored a podium. Now, they sit ninth with only 11 points, 59 fewer than at the same stage last season. On average, the car has been the ninth-fastest, 2.8% off the single-lap pace. This highlights the depth of their struggles.
Baku Upgrade: Lighter, But Is It Faster?
The Baku upgrade focuses on weight reduction, a long-standing weakness. By bringing the car closer to the minimum weight, Williams can use ballast to balance the chassis. However, according to analysis from The Race F1 Podcast, this won't drastically change their fortunes. "We know carrying excess weight is like giving away free laptime. But I don't think it will completely change their world," said Ben Anderson.
Edd Straw added that what Williams is doing in Baku is "standard housekeeping" that should have been done earlier in the season. "It's just one step. You need to see the performance improvement. It's not going to suddenly turn into a top-six car," he stated.
Too Far Behind?
Samarth Kanal believes that midfield rivals have completely outdeveloped them, leaving Williams standing still. "They are so far behind now. This upgrade can only put them at the bottom of that midfield set," he said. Fundamental issues with car balance and an aero map that needs a complete overhaul are massive tasks that might be more relevant for 2027.
Nevertheless, Alex Albon and his teammate remain hopeful that this upgrade can provide a morale boost and better performance. The team needs to find solutions quickly to avoid falling further behind.
With mounting pressure, Williams must prove they still have a clear direction towards the 2026 regulations. If not, this season could be one of the worst in the team's history.
Baca Juga
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Poin teknis F1 di GP Azerbaijan: Williams hadirkan sasis ringan inovatif, Aston Martin bawa komponen ringan untuk mendekati batas berat 768 kg.
Williams bawa upgrade besar ke GP Azerbaijan untuk atasi masalah berat dan aerodinamis. Mampukah mereka bangkit dari keterpurukan di musim 2026?
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