Albon has secured 27 out of the team’s 28 points, which is why Mercedes-AMG is currently considering him as a potential replacement for Lewis Hamilton next year.
For this season, I anticipate that Williams will not only maintain their performance from 2023 but also improve upon it. Why? Because they halted the development of last year’s car midway through the season, or possibly even earlier, in order to focus on the new FW46.
According to team principal James Vowles, the FW46 is expected to have more speed than its predecessor, with various enhancements to its vehicle dynamics.
Finally, the wait is over, to some extent. We are now looking at the new FW46, although it is only in a somewhat generic form and is adorned with the all-new official livery. I understand that this reveal may not be as exciting as anticipated, but unfortunately, this is the current state of affairs. Most teams, if not all, believe it is best to delay the unveiling of their final design until the last possible moment.
I can comprehend why Red Bull would adopt this approach, but why would Williams? It seems unlikely that anyone would want to imitate their car, especially not this early in the year.
“Unveiling the 2024 livery at the iconic location of New York City is a significant milestone,” stated Vowles during the launch event, which occurred at Puma’s flagship store on Fifth Avenue. “Since joining Williams Racing a year ago, I have witnessed this team come together to overcome numerous challenges and secure seventh place in the Constructors’ Championship, which meant a great deal to everyone involved. We have also demonstrated to the world that we are establishing the groundwork for future progress,” he concluded.
Now, when can we expect to see the actual FW46? I understand your curiosity and it is a valid question. This trend of livery reveals is becoming quite tiresome. Don’t get me wrong, I appreciate a good livery, but ultimately, we are all eager to see the actual car design, and having to wait a few more weeks for it can be frustrating.
In any case, the real FW46 is scheduled to make its debut on the track during a promotional filming day in Bahrain on February 20, just before pre-season testing begins at the same track the following day.
As for the best-looking livery among those that have already been unveiled for 2024, I have to say McLaren’s design stands out by far. Meanwhile, between the livery we are currently discussing and the one revealed last week for the Haas VF-24, I personally believe the Haas design is more visually dynamic, with better contrast.
Williams’ visual approach may be rather plain, but at least they are performing exceptionally well on the track.