Williams has unveiled a fresh design for its 2024 Formula 1 car at a launch event held in New York. The team has opted for a darker shade of blue for its FW46, paying homage to its successful history in the sport. The new livery was showcased on a vehicle that closely resembled last year’s Williams FW45, with the actual FW46 scheduled to make its debut during a shakedown run in Bahrain on February 20, just one day before the start of the three-day pre-season test. Williams also announced a new long-term sponsorship agreement with Komatsu, a company specializing in the production of heavy equipment used in construction, mining, forestry, and industry. Komatsu previously supplied gearbox components to Williams in the 1980s and 1990s, contributing to the team’s championship victories in 1996 and 1997.
Team principal James Vowles expressed that the livery represents a significant change from the previous year, both commercially and as a tribute to the team’s founder, Frank Williams. Vowles emphasized the team’s dedication to racing and its commitment to achieving success. The FW46 will be the first car designed under Vowles’ leadership, as he took over from Jost Capito in January of the previous year, when the design process for the 2023 car was already underway.
Alex Albon will continue to lead the team, although his contract is set to expire at the end of the season. The recent announcement of Lewis Hamilton’s departure from Mercedes to join Ferrari in 2024 has shaken up the driver market, potentially impacting Williams’ ability to retain Albon. Albon expressed his optimism about the team’s progress, noting that they have made adjustments to the car’s philosophy and are aiming to improve its performance. He acknowledged that adapting to the changes may require a shift in driving style but believes it will ultimately yield positive results.
In addition to the driver lineup, Williams also highlighted its Williams Driver Academy during the launch event. Jamie Chadwick, a driver backed by Williams, is preparing for her second season in Indy NXT and will serve as a mentor to Lia Block, another Williams-supported driver competing in the second season of the all-female F1 Academy series in 2024. Meanwhile, Zak O’Sullivan and Franco Colapinto, who gained experience with Williams in the previous year, will make their full-time Formula 2 debuts in 2024 with ART Grand Prix and MP Motorsport, respectively.