Williams Racing introduced a significant upgrade package at the 2026 Azerbaijan Grand Prix, aiming to improve their car’s performance on the challenging Baku street circuit. The updates included a new floor design and adjustments to the rear of the car, marking a notable step in the team’s ongoing development efforts.
Following the race, Williams drivers Carlos Sainz and Alex Albon shared their assessments of the upgrade’s impact. Sainz managed to score a point in Baku, his first in ten rounds, despite recovering from a grid penalty. He acknowledged that the upgrades brought a positive change but emphasized that further improvements would be necessary for the team to consistently compete for points.
Albon, meanwhile, experienced a crash during the race caused by a locking front wheel at a difficult corner, which led to a Safety Car period. Despite this setback, he recognized that the upgrades had enhanced the car’s pace, particularly on a track that suited Williams’ strengths. Both drivers agreed, however, that medium-speed corners remain a challenge and that more aerodynamic development is required to boost overall competitiveness.
Sainz expressed some disappointment over his qualifying penalty but remained optimistic about the potential of the upgrade package. He highlighted that while the improvements were encouraging, the team still faces work to do in order to regularly challenge for points finishes in the highly competitive field.
Albon’s feedback underlined that the car’s enhanced pace was noticeable, especially on a circuit like Baku that plays to certain strengths of the Williams package. However, he agreed with Sainz that the team must continue to address weaknesses, particularly in medium-speed corners, which currently limit their overall performance.
Both drivers’ evaluations suggest that Williams’ upgrade package is a step forward but not a complete solution. The improvements have provided a foundation to build upon, yet the team acknowledges the need for ongoing development to close the gap to midfield rivals. This measured response reflects the realistic challenges Williams faces as they work to improve their position in the Formula 1® championship.
The comments from Sainz and Albon offer a clear view of Williams’ current situation: progress has been made, but more work lies ahead to translate upgrades into consistent points-scoring results. Their insights provide valuable context for understanding the team’s development path following the Azerbaijan Grand Prix.