©F1i
HAS WILLIAMS LOST GROUND IN THE DEVELOPMENT RACE?
As the 2016 campaign unfolded, Williams was gradually caught by Force India, whose efficient aero development eventually lifted the Silverstone-based outfit to a best-ever result of fourth in the Constructors’ standings.
Meanwhile, the FW38’s front wing did not deliver the expected gains, and Williams also focused on tyre exploitation and the high pressures mandated by Pirelli at the expense of the aerodynamics.
“I didn’t expect the fight from Force India that we got, I’ll be honest, but I don’t think we actually improved our car enough over the winter,” Williams chief technical officer recently told F1i’s Chris Medland. “Of course this year we haven’t put as much development on it as normal but I suspect that’s true of others as well.
“But perhaps the one that’s caught us is Force India and their major upgrade that they did – irrespective of their little ones – was pretty damn impressive. I was surprised by that.”
After capitalising on Ferrari’s weaknesses in 2014 and banking on Red Bull’s 2015 shortcomings, Williams faced stronger opposition this year and had to settle for fifth, behind Force India and its similar annual budget of £110m.
What will 2017 bring for the revered Grove-based outfit? Williams did pretty well during the last major regulation changes in 2014, surging from a dismal 2013 campaign to finish third in the Constructors’ championship.
The pressure is on Symonds and the engineering team to deliver a strong car, which will bear the name 'FW40', so Sir Frank Williams can celebrate the 40th anniversary of his team in fine style.
Under the skin of the Force India VJM09
Under the skin of the McLaren-Honda MP4-31
Under the skin of the Ferrari SF16-H
Under the skin of the Mercedes W07
Under the skin of the Red Bull RB12
Under the skin of the Haas VF-16
Click here for more technical features
