Williams finally rolled its long-awaited FW48 onto the track at Silverstone on Wednesday, trading weeks of virtual laps and simulator screens for the unmistakable roar of rubber on tarmac.
After missing last week’s Barcelona shakedown due to production delays, the British team delivered a symbolic – but much-needed – first on-track appearance for its 2026 challenger at the home of the British Grand Prix.
The outing marked the FW48’s official debut under real skies rather than digital ones, even if the car appeared in a temporary testing livery rather than its season colours.
For a squad that had been forced to watch rivals unveil their new-era machinery in Spain, the moment felt less like a routine filming day and more like a collective exhale.
From Virtual Laps to Real Asphalt
Williams’ absence in Barcelona had raised eyebrows across the paddock, with team boss James Vowles later revealing the programme had been stretched by unprecedented workload.
Instead of running publicly, the team completed an intensive Virtual Track Test – a hybrid between simulator and mechanical rig designed to replicate on-track forces.
©Williams
Silverstone, however, was the real thing. Both Alex Albon and Carlos Sainz shared driving duties as the FW48 completed its first genuine laps, gathering early data ahead of a crucial run of tests in Bahrain later this month.
“This was a milestone day for us and it is always a very proud moment to see a new car on track for the first time,” said team boss James Vowles.
“The team has absolutely pulled together under the pressure of the situation and delivered a car today for a planned promotional filming day here at Silverstone.
“We were able to understand more about our package in preparation for Bahrain next week, and Carlos and Alex were able to provide some positive feedback to direct us, while also identifying some minor issues for us to clean up between now and then.
“The push isn't over yet – this is just the beginning and there is more in front of us.”
Drivers’ First Impressions
For the drivers, the day blended winter chill with quiet optimism. The British weather played its usual supporting role – grey skies, brisk air – but the mood in the Williams garage was notably warmer as both men climbed out of the cockpit with encouraging early feedback.
"That’s shakedown done,” said Albon. “Obviously a few bits of data to look at and areas to improve, but generally a fairly smooth day.
“We had decent weather for Silverstone at this time of year and glad to finally be in the car and driving the FW48. Our full focus is on Bahrain now, looking at the data and getting ready for the start of the season.”
Sainz echoed the sentiment, emphasising the emotional weight of a first run.
"We just had our first laps in the FW48. It’s always an exciting, special day for the drivers, the mechanics and the entire team and it’s been a great effort from everyone to get the car on track today,” commented the Spaniard.
“It was a typical winter day at Silverstone, so we focused on getting in our first few laps and completing our shakedown plan. We are ready to fly to Bahrain in a few days where we’ll dive into more complete run plans, so I’m looking forward to it!”
With Bahrain looming and the Melbourne opener drawing closer, the FW48’s first laps may have been brief – but for Williams, they signalled that the real race to 2026 has finally begun.
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