Valtteri Bottas and George Russell have brushed off the notorious collision at Imola in 2021 with laughter. Bottas has commented on his rapport with Russell following his return to the Mercedes team.

Valtteri Bottas is not worried about collaborating with George Russell at Mercedes, and he mentioned that they have even joked about their well-known crash at Imola back in 2021.

Bottas has come back to Mercedes to serve as the test and reserve driver for the 2025 Formula 1 season, collaborating with Russell and Antonelli.

The Finnish driver was part of the Mercedes team in Brackley for five years, during which the team consistently won the F1 constructors’ championship without a loss.

In the last two years of Bottas' tenure with the team, he faced growing pressure to maintain his position due to Russell's impressive performances at Williams.

During the 2020 Sakhir Grand Prix, British driver Russell delivered a better performance than Bottas while filling in for Lewis Hamilton, who was absent for the event due to contracting the coronavirus.

The duo clashed during the 2021 Emilia Romagna event in a rapid collision on the main straight.

A furious Russell approached Bottas' immobilized Mercedes and slapped him on the helmet, prompting Bottas to respond with an obscene hand gesture.

In 2022, Russell ended up taking Bottas's spot at Mercedes.

During the announcement of Mercedes' collaboration with Adidas, Bottas was questioned about the possibility of collaborating with Russell, considering their past interactions.

Bottas mentioned that they are capable of collaborating and can even joke about their mishap in Imola, which is a positive sign. Everything is fine, he added.

Mercedes is allowing Bottas to explore new options.

Bottas is primarily focused on making a comeback to the F1 grid in 2026.

Sauber decided not to choose the 35-year-old, instead signing Gabriel Bortoleto.

His best opportunity to get back onto the racing circuit next year lies with Cadillac.

Cadillac is poised to become Formula 1's 11th team, indicating that there will be a total of 22 cars competing in the 2026 season.

Bottas has stated that it's important to be "flexible" in case any chances present themselves earlier than expected.

He stated, "I believe both the team and I need to be adaptable."

Currently, I am entirely focused on this year, dedicating all my efforts to the team and striving to assist in the best way possible.

"If there's a chance to compete, I don't think the team would stand in the way. We'll have to wait and see."

"We should approach each race individually, commence the season, and then observe what unfolds throughout the year and in 2026."

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An analysis of the potential move for Oscar Piastri to join Red Bull

"With Mark Webber overseeing Piastri's career, there’s a chance they might express a desire for their own team."

Oscar Piastri has been identified as the clear candidate for Red Bull to consider if they were to unexpectedly part ways with Max Verstappen.

Verstappen is setting his sights on securing his fifth straight Formula 1 drivers' title in 2025.

However, his future in the coming years is uncertain because the rules set for 2026 are approaching. This shift could allow any team to develop a quicker vehicle and potentially lure Verstappen over to their side.

He has been associated with Aston Martin and Mercedes, but who might Red Bull choose as his replacement?

During the Crash F1 podcast, Connor McDonagh mentioned that if Verstappen were to move to Aston Martin, it would open up several possibilities.

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"Fernando Alonso could be considered, although his age might discourage Red Bull from choosing him."

In my view, the options remaining are Lando Norris or Oscar Piastri.

The situation varies based on their dynamic and whether Norris is given preference over Piastri.

"Mark Webber is overseeing Piastri's career, and they might express a desire for their own team where they can take the lead role."

It is understood that Helmut Marko has shown interest in Piastri.

"It's clear-cut. I have the impression that Norris will once more surpass Piastri. Piastri might assert, 'I deserve to have my own team.'"

"If a spot opened up at Red Bull, I believe they would choose him."

If Verstappen decided not to join Aston Martin, the consequences would be different. Should he choose to go to Mercedes instead, it might open up the possibility for George Russell to become available.

Red Bull targets McLaren's Oscar Piastri?

"They are undoubtedly the clear choices," commented Lewis Larkam.

"There have been reports of their interest in Piastri, and previously, they were also keen on Norris."

Much of that will depend on how their relationship unfolds at McLaren.

"If disagreements arise and a person chooses to depart, it creates an opportunity for someone to join Red Bull. This is just a theoretical scenario."

Max Verstappen has a contract with Red Bull that runs until 2028, placing him among the highest earners in Formula 1, along with Lewis Hamilton.

Last year, he restated his dedication to his team during the internal disputes when the idea of his departure was initially suggested.

Aston Martin is showing its ambitions by establishing a new factory and making several high-profile signings, such as Adrian Newey.

It is speculated that Mercedes has developed an impressive engine for the upcoming regulations, which could attract the attention of leading drivers.

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Renowned Red Bull mechanic shares opinion on Lewis Hamilton's potential at Ferrari

"If you want to see Lewis perform at his peak, it would likely be when he's energized by a fresh challenge, such as a move to Ferrari."

Calum Nicholas, a mechanic for Red Bull F1, finds Lewis Hamilton's move to Ferrari to be "incredibly thrilling" and believes that the seven-time world champion ought to be "highly motivated" with his new team.

The key topic of discussion as we approach the 2025 Formula 1 season is Hamilton's switch to Ferrari.

In recent weeks, Hamilton has embarked on his journey with Ferrari by making his inaugural visit to Maranello.

Following an introduction to his new team at the Maranello base, Hamilton got behind the wheel of a Ferrari F1 vehicle for the inaugural time.

After conducting two more tests in Barcelona, Ferrari is now preparing for the unveiling of their 2025 Formula 1 car, which is scheduled for next week.

Hamilton is likely to have another chance on the track before the pre-season tests begin in Bahrain at the month's end.

Hamilton and Leclerc are expected to collaborate effectively. Nicholas has spent a decade at Red Bull, focusing primarily on the power unit in his present position.

He has played a crucial role in Red Bull achieving multiple world-record pit stops throughout the years.

During an interview on TalkSport, while promoting his latest book 'Life in the Pit Lane', Nicholas was questioned about Hamilton and his prospects in 2025 as a 40-year-old.

Nicholas expressed his enthusiasm, saying, "It's truly thrilling. To see Lewis perform at his peak, it's ideal to have him energized by a fresh challenge such as this one with Ferrari."

"It’s evident that this is very important to him. The rich history and fervor of Ferrari make it a coveted milestone for many drivers in their professional journeys."

"It's going to be thrilling. I believe he and Charles Leclerc will form a great partnership. Based on my brief encounters with Charles, he appears to be someone eager to learn from a seasoned driver like Lewis. I expect Lewis will find it very fulfilling to help lead the team back to success."

Nicholas and Red Bull aim to maintain their series of world championships into the year 2025.

Max Verstappen has clinched the drivers' championship for four years in a row, starting from 2021.

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Charles Leclerc advised to establish early superiority over Lewis Hamilton at Ferrari

Eddie Jordan's recommendation for Charles Leclerc against Lewis Hamilton in 2025.

Ex-Formula 1 team owner Eddie Jordan has encouraged Charles Leclerc to capitalize on his stable position at Ferrari, while Lewis Hamilton adjusts to his new team.

By 2025, Charles Leclerc will have completed seven seasons with Ferrari, having started his journey with the team in 2019 when he partnered with Sebastian Vettel.

Leclerc has established himself as the team's leader, outperforming Vettel and maintaining a comfortable distance from Carlos Sainz.

A refreshed Hamilton is expected to pose Leclerc's most formidable competition so far, as both racers aim to contend with Max Verstappen for the world championship title this year.

Charles Leclerc will start off with an edge because he has spent a considerable period with Ferrari.

During an appearance on the Formula for Success podcast, Jordan discussed the importance of Leclerc seizing opportunities from the beginning.

"Leclerc has been part of the team for seven years now. He's familiar with everyone, understands the dynamics, and can communicate effectively," Jordan remarked.

Known as Maranello's favorite, he might find himself caught off guard. He seemed to have a particular edge over Sainz. From my perspective, I believe Lewis will start off strongly. Although, to be more precise, I anticipate it will take him a couple of races to gain full momentum.

"I recommend that Leclerc starts strong from the beginning, as this is when he is likely to demonstrate a certain level of superiority."

As the season progresses, fans are increasingly expressing their admiration for Hamilton, especially from the Italian community known as the Tifosi, as well as from the nation as a whole, considering this is a national team. I truly believe that Lewis desires to and will indeed welcome the affection that is being shown.

Ferrari is preparing for their Formula 1 debut. The past few weeks have been hectic for the team following Hamilton's initial day.

During his initial week with the team, Hamilton, alongside Leclerc, took the SF-23 for a drive at Fiorano.

Soon after, they were both actively participating in Barcelona, taking full advantage of their TPC allocation.

Their race was abruptly halted after Hamilton experienced a collision in the last section of the Spanish track.

This past week, the SF-24 took to the track while Ferrari and McLaren collaborated with Pirelli to work on the development of their 2026 tires.

The two days of testing proceeded without any issues for the drivers as they prepare for the upcoming launch season.

The SF-25 is scheduled to be officially revealed on February 19, which is also when it will next be seen on the track.

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Critics, including Lewis Hamilton, have pointed out significant weaknesses in Max Verstappen's performance. "His current racing skills aren't as sharp as they used to be," they remarked.

It has been alleged that Max Verstappen's competitors for the championship, such as Lewis Hamilton, have "obvious weaknesses."

Hamilton's move from Mercedes to Ferrari brings a fresh element to the competition for the F1 drivers' championship in 2025, while Verstappen is targeting his fifth consecutive title.

However, Red Bull has fallen behind McLaren in the race to develop the fastest car in F1, which means Lando Norris might also play a significant role.

Martin Brundle from Sky Sports suggested that although Hamilton might be slightly less than perfect because of age, he is still capable of competing at the top, a sentiment shared by our experts.

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"I believe that's the case," Lewis Larkam mentioned during the Crash F1 podcast.

Last year, Hamilton's performance fell short of his usual high standards, yet it would have represented a career high for many other drivers.

“It’s challenging to determine with certainty whether Hamilton is past his prime or has already hit his highest point.”

"There are indications that he has become less sharp in certain aspects."

This season should provide a more accurate portrayal, as it will reveal whether it was Mercedes.

"Could a Hamilton at 97% or 98% of his full potential still secure the championship? I believe he could, but if he's competing against a Max Verstappen who is performing at 100%…"

"If Red Bull resolves their problems and their car is highly competitive, it will be extremely challenging for anyone to defeat Verstappen this season."

However, even when Hamilton is performing at 98% or 99% of his potential, he remains the competitor capable of challenging Verstappen throughout the season.

"Uncertainties remain regarding the other drivers. As for Lando Norris, although last season marked his best and most impressive performance to date, there were mistakes and concerns about his mindset."

Throughout the season, we did not witness a Norris versus Verstappen match-up.

"The sole comparison we have for that metric is the 2021 rivalry between Hamilton and Verstappen."

"With Hamilton performing at 98%, he is expected to be a strong contender for the championship."

Significant Weaknesses Among Max Verstappen's Competitors

Connor McDonagh pointed out that the racers trailing Verstappen exhibit notable weaknesses, and this assessment includes Hamilton as well.

"We've talked about his performance in qualifying, but his ability to navigate races today isn't as strong as it used to be."

"He takes a more cautious and restrained approach. This has its advantages when you're driving the top-performing car and need to ensure a successful finish with minimal risk."

"But when he qualifies in a lower position, he takes more risks. He's accustomed to competing at the front with Mercedes."

"That's the major uncertainty concerning Hamilton."

"Excluding the year 2024, his performance during races in 2022 and 2023 was exceptional, although his results in qualifying sessions were inconsistent."

"Verstappen tends to be free of those kinds of inconsistencies."

"However, considering it's Hamilton, I don't want to end up embarrassed in six months!"

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Adrian Newey's achievements could unintentionally persuade Max Verstappen to consider a change. Although it might require a few years, this timeline could align more favorably for Verstappen.

It has been suggested that although Adrian Newey may not immediately excel at Aston Martin, this situation could potentially aid in the chase of Max Verstappen.

Starting next month, Newey will take on the role of chief technical partner and become a shareholder at Aston Martin. This strategic shift might provide them with an advantage when the 2026 regulations come into effect.

The team has been cautioned that his development may take time, but this delay could eventually allow them to catch Verstappen.

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Connor McDonagh mentioned on the Crash F1 podcast that there is a suggestion that the upcoming regulations might focus on engine specifications, similar to what happened in 2014. As a result, the effectiveness of his efforts may be overshadowed by Honda's performance.

Back in 2014, Red Bull had a well-designed chassis thanks to him. However, the Renault power unit was subpar, allowing Mercedes to dominate the season.

The success of Aston Martin will ultimately depend on the performance of their engine.

"Clearly, Newey's expertise will influence the chassis rules, but it will require some time to see the impact."

Max Verstappen Considering Move to Aston Martin in 2027?

Connor McDonagh noted, "While Newey is scheduled to begin in March, other teams might kick off their projects as early as January, putting him a few months at a disadvantage."

Observing the timeline is quite fascinating. I would be very surprised if Aston Martin emerged as the leading team by 2026.

"It could potentially take a few years, but this timeline might align more favorably for Max Verstappen."

By the time 2026 arrives, he might evaluate whether he should join Mercedes, Ferrari, Aston Martin, or Red Bull.

"He can choose which team he wants to be a part of."

"The level of patience Lawrence Stroll maintains is also a factor. He has poured a significant amount of investment into the new factory and has made several major hires."

He believes it will work out in the end. However, there's no certainty that it will, as nothing is assured in Formula 1.

Aston Martin refuted a report by the Daily Mail suggesting that a £1 billion proposal had been prepared to entice Verstappen away from Red Bull.

Discussions about Verstappen's future are ongoing due to the regulations set to be introduced in 2026.

These new regulations allow any team to potentially start the season with the quickest car, potentially maintaining their lead for many years.

Aston Martin is optimistic that Newey's brilliance will lead to the development of the fastest Formula 1 car by 2026 and in the future, potentially drawing in elite drivers.

Max Verstappen's contract with Red Bull extends until the year 2028.

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Formula 1 icon comments on Lewis Hamilton’s “surprise” as Mercedes focuses on George Russell

"The team understood that Russell was the future, leading them to give him priority over Hamilton throughout the season."

Former Formula 1 star Juan Pablo Montoya suggests that Mercedes focused more on George Russell throughout the entire season due to a change in team dynamics after Lewis Hamilton chose to move to Ferrari the previous year.

In 2025, Hamilton will embark on a new chapter in his career by joining Ferrari, ending a 12-year stint with Mercedes.

The driver, who has won the world championship seven times, is heading to Maranello after experiencing his least successful Formula 1 season so far.

Although Hamilton secured two wins, he was largely outshone by his teammate Russell, especially during the qualifying rounds, where Hamilton managed to outperform Russell just five times.

Hamilton's recent struggles have caused him to doubt if he still possesses the pace required to compete at the highest level in Formula 1.

Montoya, a former F1 driver from the early 2000s, firmly believes that the supportive atmosphere at Ferrari could help Hamilton reach his full potential.

Montoya mentioned to Crash.net through CasinoApps that having the proper surroundings will aid Lewis Hamilton in returning to peak performance, particularly during qualifying sessions.

Last year, Hamilton experienced an unexpected turn of events. Previously, the team focused on catering to his needs and structuring everything around him. However, this shifted to favor George Russell. Recognizing Russell as the future of the team, Mercedes chose to give him priority throughout the season, leaving Hamilton in a secondary role.

"The meticulous care given to Hamilton's car at Ferrari is expected to be significantly improved, ensuring that any issues he encounters will be addressed with the same promptness as the ones Russell experienced last season."

Hamilton advances with Ferrari training

Following a groundbreaking initial week in Maranello, Hamilton is furthering his preparations for the upcoming season with Ferrari by conducting a second round of testing at the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya.

Hamilton is set to compete later this week with his teammate Charles Leclerc.

Having missed the post-season test in Abu Dhabi, Hamilton will find himself at a disadvantage compared to Carlos Sainz at Williams, who completed two days of driving.

Due to limitations on testing older vehicles this year, Hamilton will have a restricted amount of time on the track before next month's pre-season test in Bahrain.

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Fred Vasseur's straightforward style earns acclaim as Lewis Hamilton gears up for his debut season with Ferrari.

"Vasseur avoids getting caught up in distractions that could potentially unsettle the team."

Karun Chandhok, an analyst for Sky Sports F1, has commended Frederic Vasseur for his straightforward attitude and his ability to bring a sense of calm to Ferrari in his role as team principal.

At the beginning of 2023, Vasseur took over from Mattia Binotto as the head of the Ferrari team.

With the Frenchman in charge, Ferrari has made fewer strategic errors, and the organizational adjustments have led to beneficial outcomes.

Consequently, Ferrari is well-positioned to secure victories in both championships in 2025, assuming their development during the off-season is robust.

During an episode of the Evo India podcast, Chandhok praised Vasseur for his influence as the team's leader.

Chandhok described him as someone who is both highly skilled in the sport and straightforward in demeanor.

"He stays out of political matters and avoids the distractions that might unsettle the team. I've been acquainted with Fred for many years. What I appreciate about him is his calm demeanor and methodical approach. He never gets overly enthusiastic."

"I recall visiting him in Mexico following the race where he completely outperformed everyone. Sainz effortlessly claimed victory, and I encouraged him by saying, 'The constructors' championship is within reach; you can achieve it.' However, he responded, 'We're not discussing that. We'll focus on the debrief and then on Brazil. We're addressing each race as it comes, one step at a time. That's my sole focus.' His method is incredibly pragmatic and practical."

Will Hamilton be the one to break Ferrari’s championship dry spell?

The anticipation at Ferrari grows with Lewis Hamilton joining Charles Leclerc for the 2025 season.

Last year, Ferrari ended the season only 13 points short of McLaren in the competition for the constructors' championship.

Considering that Ferrari boasts the most formidable team of drivers theoretically, their primary goal should be the Constructors' Championship.

Ferrari has not achieved a championship victory since 2008, when they secured the constructors' title with drivers Felipe Massa and Kimi Raikkonen.

The last time they had a driver win the championship was with Raikkonen in 2007

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Uncertainty looms over Lewis Hamilton's dedication to simulator sessions and testing as doubts are dismissed.

"He might have to go back to square one now."

It has been reported that Lewis Hamilton is set to wholeheartedly accept and engage in testing and simulator responsibilities with Ferrari.

The Crash F1 podcast discussed how it's unjust to label Hamilton as an F1 driver who dislikes testing or using the simulator.

Although he usually skips the postseason F1 test, he is ready to dive into his new journey with Ferrari and get involved.

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Lewis Larkam mentioned on the podcast that, based on what they've observed, he is genuinely committed to this, not only when using the simulator.

"Even the little things, such as his attempts to begin learning Italian, have been steps towards building relationships."

The statement highlights his dedication and desire for success.

The individual has started using the simulator, marking the beginning of that process. This step will be vital for his performance at Ferrari and in shaping a car that aligns with his needs and supports his success.

While at Mercedes, he felt very at ease and probably didn't require additional time.

"It seems he may have to begin again from the beginning."

Hamilton's Simulator Sessions Raise No Significant Worries

It's intriguing to see the connection Lewis Hamilton has quickly developed with the Tifosi. They already have a deep admiration for him. In fact, about 1,500 fans gathered around to watch his initial testing session, which is a larger crowd than what greeted either Sebastian Vettel or Fernando Alonso during their respective tests.

He has already established a bond and appears to be integrating himself well, both with the Tifosi and, crucially, with the team.

Lewis Hamilton has consistently expressed his dislike for testing, often attempting to avoid participating in postseason testing sessions. Despite this, his ability to propel a team forward has never been in doubt.

"I think he will be completely refreshed and ready to achieve those improvements."

Connor McDonagh mentioned that except for possibly the previous year, he consistently took the lead in driving the arrangements forward.

"He was in the simulator, working on improving the performance of Mercedes."

"He won't back down. He will dedicate himself completely to the mission."

"There is little reason to worry about what he has contributed in this context."

Lewis Larkam responded by saying, "During last season, there were moments when Hamilton seemed to lose focus. It felt like he was mentally disengaged at times."

"He was aware that Mercedes was not going to secure victories in races, let alone clinch the championship, and he was conscious of his impending departure."

"The situation was unusual since the announcement of his departure came before he actually left."

"Maybe Hamilton relaxed a bit, either intentionally or without realizing it."

"As he enters this season, he will be fully prepared and focused."

"The main issue will be how fast he can get up to speed."

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Liam Lawson cautioned that "there will be nowhere to hide" at Red Bull, as the objectives for 2025 were set. He expressed excitement, saying, "One of the highlights for me will be watching how he performs this year at the front of the pack."

Ex-Formula 1 racer Anthony Davidson has cautioned Liam Lawson that partnering with Max Verstappen at Red Bull in 2025 will leave him with "nowhere to hide."

Red Bull selected Lawson to replace Sergio Perez for the next season.

During his six-race period with Red Bull in 2024, Lawson was unable to qualify ahead of Yuki Tsunoda. Nonetheless, Red Bull admired how swiftly he adapted and his eagerness to compete aggressively on the circuit.

In 2025, Lawson is set to compete against Verstappen, who aims to secure his fifth straight F1 drivers' championship.

In evaluating Lawson before his debut full season in Formula 1, Davidson suggests that Lawson's primary objective should be to accumulate sufficient points to support Red Bull in their battle for the constructors' championship—a feat that Perez was unable to achieve during his last year with the team.

According to Davidson on the Sky Sports F1 website, Liam Lawson, with just 11 Grands Prix to his name, is taking on a pivotal role next to Max Verstappen, widely regarded as one of the greatest F1 drivers in history. This undoubtedly marks a crucial moment in Lawson’s career.

His task is straightforward: consistently secure points in the championship to aid Red Bull in their quest for the Constructors' Championship. He will be under significant scrutiny and pressure, but up to this point, he has evidently won over key individuals whose opinions are crucial.

"Watching him compete at the front of the grid this year will be a major highlight for me."

Red Bull requires enhancement in 2025

Despite Verstappen securing his fourth drivers' championship with two races remaining, Red Bull concluded the season as the third-quickest team.

In 2024, Verstappen clinched victory in seven out of the first ten races. However, in the following 14 races, he managed to secure only

Red Bull faced challenges with improving their car during the season, and the handling features of the RB20 posed significant difficulties for both drivers, including Verstappen.

Starting with the Singapore race, Red Bull was able to reverse its fortunes, enabling Verstappen to secure victories in both Brazil and Qatar.

His victory in Brazil came from his exceptional performance in varying weather conditions. Meanwhile, in Qatar, he benefited from a penalty given to Lando Norris, which made the final part of the race easier for him.

In the absence of Adrian Newey, Red Bull's design team will face a significant challenge in 2025 as they strive to demonstrate to Verstappen their ability to continue crafting exceptional Formula 1 vehicles.

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EXCLUSIVE: James Vowles Set to Uncover Carlos Sainz's Ferrari Insights

In an exclusive interview with Crash.net, Williams team principal James Vowles shared his thoughts at the F1 2025 Silverstone season launch event.

Today, Williams became the second team to officially unveil their Formula 1 car for the 2025 season.

At the Silverstone event, Carlos Sainz and Alex Albon took turns driving the FW47, while members of the media and invited guests were present.

In an exclusive conversation with team principal James Vowles, Crash.net aimed to uncover more details regarding Sainz's insights following his drive. The discussion also touched upon whether Sainz's feedback was consistent with Albon's analysis and what knowledge Sainz might share with Williams based on his time at Ferrari.

"It's not merely about increasing downforce; it's more about achieving the right balance, which is something he particularly seeks, and we've already mastered that," Vowles explained to Crash.net.

He was also interested in other aspects of the car, such as enhancing the starting process, improving the overall feel while driving, and optimizing how well he fits and functions within the vehicle.

Carlos Sainz has joined the team now called 'Atlassian Williams Racing,' bringing with him a wealth of experience and a strong reputation as one of the most esteemed drivers in Formula 1.

With only four race victories to his name, it doesn't fully reflect the dependable performance and steady speed he has shown during his Formula 1 career, which has included stints with Toro Rosso, Renault, McLaren, Ferrari, and currently Williams.

The head of Williams provided more details on Sainz's comments, stating: "Sainz expressed satisfaction with certain elements, such as the stability during braking. However, he identified balance, particularly in high-speed corners, as an area for improvement. Fortunately, we're already moving in the right direction. Additionally, the car's feel as the tires wear down is another aspect we're looking at."

In interviews following races last year, drivers like Albon, Logan Sargeant, and Franco Colapino frequently discussed problems with the car's general drivability and how it reacted to wind. However, the team's standout performances showed that their car could compete effectively with the midfield when it was performing optimally. The main challenge is expanding that optimal performance range.

In conclusion, and possibly most interestingly, when asked about the importance of Sainz’s hidden technical insights from Ferrari and how beneficial they could be to CTO Pat Fry and the design team at the Grove headquarters, Vowles firmly stated that the team's car problems need to be addressed from within.

In his statement, Vowles expressed that if Sainz were to present anything, he would simply discard and eliminate it, emphasizing that everything must remain within the organization—and indeed, it is!

The FW47 is set to make its debut on the track during the official pre-season testing in Bahrain from February 26 to 28. It will then compete in its first race at the opening event of the season, the Australian Grand Prix in Melbourne, scheduled for March 16.

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How Williams Has Surpassed Carlos Sainz’s Expectations

Carlos Sainz discusses why Williams has already made a favorable impact on him as they prepare for the 2025 F1 season.

Carlos Sainz has been favorably impressed by Williams as he gets ready for his first Formula 1 season with the team.

Star acquisition Sainz was the initial Williams driver to take the new 2025 car for a spin, after it was unveiled at Silverstone last Friday.

The driver, who has secured four grand prix victories, has transitioned from Ferrari after being replaced to accommodate the incoming seven-time world champion, Lewis Hamilton.

Even though not much can be learned from these initial runs due to F1 testing limitations and unusual track conditions, Sainz found the experience immediately promising.

Carlos Sainz described his initial experience with the FW47 as "honestly positive" during a discussion with reporters, among them Crash.net, after his first drive of the vehicle.

"The most significant aspect of this event is that it highlights Williams' advancement. The team's confidence is evident as they organize a test in front of all their key partners and the media, showcasing the car's inaugural laps. This demonstrates Williams' faith in their upgraded equipment, ensuring the vehicle performs smoothly, as was evident today without any problems."

"It's a positive indication and a strong message to the outside world, reflecting the advancements Williams aims to achieve. I'm pleased with how the first day went."

In the post-season test at Abu Dhabi in December, Sainz had the chance to try out Williams' 2024 car and expressed that he was pleasantly surprised by the vehicle's performance.

He stated that first impressions hold significant weight as you only get a single opportunity to make one, and in this case, it was a favorable one.

During my time in Abu Dhabi, I discovered a car that exceeded my initial expectations to some extent. While it did have some shortcomings when compared to the vehicles I am accustomed to driving, the difference wasn't significantly large.

"The midfield teams have significantly closed the gap with the leading teams. This was evident during the first qualifying session in Abu Dhabi, where our times were separated by just half a second. When you consider that margin over an entire lap, it comes down to sensing a difference of about a hundredth of a second in each corner. You need to be highly skilled to detect such subtle differences."

The speaker expressed definite feelings and noted that they observed the team to be highly motivated and energetic. This was particularly impressive considering the challenges of completing a triple-header and the Abu Dhabi test, after which people typically just want to head home.

"The enthusiasm I witnessed on that day, along with our ability to flawlessly adhere to and carry out our strategy, was significant to me. This test was crucial and I believe it will be beneficial as we prepare for Bahrain."

Sainz was reluctant to share his predictions for the upcoming season at such an early point.

He urged, "Let me at least have the Bahrain test to evaluate." He emphasized that the competition among the midfield teams will be extremely close. He pointed out that even if you make a seven-tenths improvement, it doesn't make a difference if your competitors also make the same progress, as you'll still find yourself in the same position on the grid.

"I require some time to evaluate the situation of everyone in Bahrain before determining our strategy for Australia. A crucial aspect for me is maintaining the positive momentum and continued progress that Williams is experiencing."

"We are witnessing advancements across the board, and it's crucial to maintain this momentum and continue capitalizing on it. In my view, sustaining this progress is key, as I believe the significant opportunity for Williams will arise in 2026 rather than 2025."

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Lewis frequently travels to various Grand Prix events globally for Crash.net. He often provides firsthand accounts of the races and shares the narratives of key figures in the sport.

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