Williams Racing Confirms F1 2025 Launch Plans and New Driver Lineup
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Williams Racing confirms its F1 2025 car launch date and unveils new driver lineup with Carlos Sainz and Alex Albon. Explore their ambitious plans for the season.
Williams Racing has announced that its new FW47 car for the Formula 1 2025 season will be launched on February 14 at Silverstone. With a new driver lineup featuring Carlos Sainz and Alex Albon, the team is setting its sights on a strong comeback.
Carlos Sainz Joins Williams for F1 2025
After departing Ferrari to make way for seven-time World Champion Lewis Hamilton, Carlos Sainz is ready for a new challenge with Williams. The Spaniard, coming off a career-best 2024 season with wins in Australia and Mexico, has signed a multi-year deal with the Grove-based team.
FW47 Launch Plans
The new FW47 will be revealed with a “bespoke one-off livery” during the Silverstone launch, while the official color scheme for the 2025 season will debut at Formula 1’s first-ever collective season launch in London. This event, celebrating the 75th year of the World Championship, will feature all 10 teams and 20 drivers.
Sainz’s First Taste of Williams Machinery
Sainz got his first experience with Williams during the post-season test in Abu Dhabi, completing 146 laps and setting the second-fastest lap time behind former teammate Charles Leclerc. His performance has fueled optimism within the team.
New Sponsorship and Facility Upgrades
Williams confirmed a multi-year sponsorship deal with Spanish bank Santander, marking a significant partnership for the team. Team principal James Vowles highlighted ongoing upgrades at the team’s Grove headquarters, including new facilities aimed at improving performance.
Optimism for the Season Ahead
Vowles expressed confidence in Williams’ direction: “We have fantastic race drivers in Alex and Carlos, top engineers from across the grid, and new facilities becoming operational. The FW47 launch at Silverstone will mark a pivotal moment in our journey to return Williams to the front of the grid.”
Driver Insights: Sainz and Albon
Carlos Sainz emphasized his commitment to Williams’ resurgence: “It’s an important time for the team, and we’re all pushing to bring Williams back to the front. After testing in Abu Dhabi, I was impressed by the team’s dedication and focus.”
Alex Albon, entering his fourth season with Williams, added, “Launching on February 14 will be a great way to start an exciting year. Everyone at the factory is working tirelessly, and I’m looking forward to competing with both cars from the outset.”
Franco Colapinto’s Departure
Williams also announced the release of Franco Colapinto, who has joined Alpine as their reserve driver. Vowles stated, “Franco’s impressive 2024 performances earned him this opportunity. We’re proud of his development and confident he has a bright future in Formula 1.”
Colapinto expressed gratitude for his time with Williams: “They made my dreams come true, and I’ll always be thankful. To the fans and team members who supported me, thank you for everything.”
What’s Next for Williams?
The FW47’s unveiling at Silverstone will set the stage for an ambitious 2025 campaign. With Sainz and Albon at the helm, Williams is determined to reclaim its place as a top contender in Formula 1.
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