Claire Williams puts her full faith in team's driver line-up

©Williams

Pundits have suggested that Williams are taking on a big risk this year by entrusting its cars to the youngest and least experienced driver line-up in the team's history.

But deputy team principal Claire Williams is putting her full faith in 19-year-old Lance Stroll and 22-year-old Sergey Sirotkin, with Robert Kubica sitting on the Williams' reserve bench

"I am thrilled to be back and launching our new car, for a new season, with a new, exciting driver line-up.

"For many months, the team have put a tremendous amount of effort into the FW41 and I’m eager to see both Lance and Sergey take to the track later this month.

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"Lance produced some impressive performances last year in what was a remarkably strong debut season, where he only just lost out to Felipe in the standings.

"His podium finish was the only one outside of the top three teams, and we aim to build on that this season.

"It’s also my pleasure to welcome Sergey and Robert to Williams, who have both displayed exceptional speed and qualities that I know will only strengthen the team.

"Sergey has impressed the technical team and it is great for us to be able to give him the opportunity to step up into a race seat.

"Robert, will also be working closely with the team, utilising his experience to help develop the car throughout the season.

"Our entire team have put a huge amount of effort into the development and production of this year’s car, and we’re all looking forward to seeing it on the track.

"I would also like to thank our partners and fans for all their confidence and support."

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Phillip van Osten

Motor racing was a backdrop from the outset in Phillip van Osten's life. Born in Southern California, Phillip grew up with the sights and sounds of fast cars thanks to his father, Dick van Osten, an editor and writer for Auto Speed and Sport and Motor Trend. Phillip's passion for racing grew even more when his family moved to Europe and he became acquainted with the extraordinary world of Grand Prix racing. He was an early contributor to the monthly French F1i Magazine, often providing a historic or business perspective on Formula 1's affairs. In 2012, he co-authored along with fellow journalist Pierre Van Vliet the English-language adaptation of a limited edition book devoted to the great Belgian driver Jacky Ickx. He also authored "The American Legacy in Formula 1", a book which recounts the trials and tribulations of American drivers in Grand Prix racing. Phillip is also a commentator for Belgian broadcaster Be.TV for the US Indycar series.