Formula 1: Can Williams maintain their momentum?

It is quite clear that Williams are one of the most improved teams in Formula 1 this season, but the question is whether they can maintain that momentum.

Last season, it was quite evident that Williams were the worst team in Formula 1. They were the only team that did not reach double-digit points. Many expected them to be the worst on the grid yet again in 2023. However, this has not been the case, given how they have opened their campaign.

Williams are running a new driver lineup, with Alex Albon returning for a second season and Logan Sargeant being one of the three rookies on the grid.

The pair had a strong start to the season in Bahrain, with Albon finishing in the points and Sargeant finishing just two places lower. It was quite a surprise to many that Williams were able to fix a good amount of their issues from last season.

Williams had a good showing during the whole weekend in Jeddah, but unlucky issues put the team in a tough spot after qualifying and the race.

However, there are quite a few positives to take away from the team.

“It’s the best the car’s felt since my time driving at Williams, so that’s very positive,” Albon said, despite not being able to finish the race. “More just frustrating because we had a lot of potential in the car this weekend and we couldn’t use it.”

Clearly, there is confidence in the Williams garage this season. The team have done a brilliant job putting together a much-improved car at the factory in Oxfordshire. It has been quite a while since there was this much positivity coming from Williams. Additionally, James Vowles joining as the team’s new principal is proving to be the right decision.

This big question is whether or not Williams can make this last the entire 2023 Formula 1 season.

Judging from the early signs, it is a genuine possibility that Williams can make massive strides this season. Their car has a good pace and reliability does not seem to be too much of an issue for them. They just have to maintain good awareness throughout the whole weekend and know who their battles are with on the grid.

Also, they will need a bit of luck in order to achieve their aspirations. As we saw this past weekend in Jeddah, Sargeant had his lap time deleted in Q1 due to exceeding track limits. As unlucky as it was, it led to him starting at the back of the grid.

Williams will definitely look to stay in that midfield battle this season, potentially being in the mix for finishing sixth in the constructor standings. Confidence will play a key role in their endeavors, as they have all the tools necessary in order to succeed.

Williams will be hoping to maintain this momentum as they head to Melbourne for the Australian Grand Prix at Albert Park Circuit on Sunday, April 2. ESPN is set to broadcast the race live beginning at 1:00 a.m. ET, so begin a free trial of FuboTV and don’t miss it!