After his unsuccessful tenure at Red Bull and a year on the sidelines, Albon accumulated all but one of the former champions’ points in 2023. Now entering his third season with Williams, he has become a target for top teams such as Mercedes and Red Bull as they contemplate their options for 2025.
“Following a highly successful year, we are eager to build upon our progress in 2024, striving to make significant advancements in terms of performance,” expressed the Thai racing driver at the Williams livery launch in New York on Monday.
The brand new FW46 car, powered by Mercedes, will make its debut on the track during a filming day in Bahrain on 20 February. Official pre-season testing will commence on 21st February in the same location.
Albon further commented, “We have pushed the team and the factory to their limits in order to ensure that this car reaches its full potential. Additionally, we have slightly altered the car’s philosophy.”
“I am intrigued to see if we can enhance some of its historical characteristics. Although it will require a change in driving style, I am confident that it will be a change for the better,” Albon added.
The unveiling, held at Puma’s flagship Fifth Avenue store, also marked the introduction of a principal partnership with Japanese machinery manufacturer Komatsu. They have previously collaborated with Williams during the 1980s and 1990s, supplying gearbox components for the title-winning FW18 and FW19 cars.
Williams, who last clinched a championship in 1997, are currently under the ownership of U.S.-based private investment firm Dorilton Capital. They also boast the only American driver in the sport, Logan Sargeant, who is entering his second season.
“Taking the opportunity to thoroughly reflect upon my rookie season, I have gained invaluable lessons and experience that will undoubtedly benefit me as I embark on this new season,” Sargeant shared.
Team principal James Vowles, who joined Williams from Mercedes a year ago, expressed his confidence in his two drivers, stating that they are “capable of consistently competing for points while spearheading our development for the future.”
The 2024 F1 World Championship season will kick off with the Bahrain Grand Prix on 2nd March. (Report by Alan Baldwin)