Alex Albon, the Thai racing driver, expressed his belief that he deserves a winning car in Formula 1. However, he specifically hopes to achieve this with the Williams team, despite ongoing speculation about his future. Albon’s impressive performances since his return to F1 in 2022 have put him in contention for a seat with the top teams. Initially, he was considered as a potential replacement for Carlos Sainz at Ferrari, but the Italian team recently announced the signing of Lewis Hamilton for the upcoming season. As a result, Albon’s name has been linked to a potential return to Red Bull or a move to Mercedes, where Hamilton will be leaving. James Vowles, the boss of Williams, confirmed that Albon has a contract for 2025, but he also stated that the team wouldn’t prevent him from exploring opportunities with other teams. Albon emphasized his belief in his ability to compete for victories and stressed that the progress of Williams will play a crucial role in his long-term commitment. He expressed his excitement about the development of the FW46 car and his eagerness to assess its performance in the upcoming races, starting with Bahrain. Albon’s primary focus remains on Williams, as he sees himself as part of the team. However, he acknowledged the interest from other teams and the competitive driver market for the 2025 and 2026 seasons. Albon’s preference is to have a long-term contract with Williams if the team meets his expectations. He is determined to give his all to the team and hopes that everything falls into place accordingly.
Williams rose from the bottom of the Constructors’ Championship to seventh place last season, but Vowles acknowledges that making further advancements in the meantime may prove challenging. Instead, the former Mercedes Strategy Director has implemented plans to overhaul the infrastructure at the team’s Grove base, keeping in mind the upcoming 2026 regulation changes.
Albon praises the strong bond he shares with Vowles, highlighting how his team leader ensures his involvement in the team’s future plans. “James always keeps me informed about the team’s current status, the progress we’ve made, and the areas that require improvement,” he stated. “He is very open in that regard, which fosters a positive relationship with your team principal.”
“It will take time. I believe that between 2026 and 2027 is when we will consistently be able to compete for podium finishes, but that is still quite a distance away,” Albon admitted. “For now, I must be content with the journey we are undertaking and the progress we are achieving. My vision for the team’s future is clear, and I will do everything in my power to support and drive that vision forward.”