Williams team principal James Vowles says the team will use the Japanese Grand Prix as a “line in the sand”. Vowles reflected on what he called the “painful” race at the Suzuka circuit.
The Vowles-led team experienced a challenging weekend. Carlos Sainz finished 15th, and Alex Albon crossed the line in 20th.
Vowles’s Reaction and Future Aims
Vowles took to social media platform X after the race to address the team’s fans. He made his message clear.
“It was a painful day today, and I want to make it a line in the sand and make sure we add performance every race going forward this year and fight back towards a point-scoring position every weekend,” he wrote. “We need to maximise these next five weeks in front of us.”
Despite the frustrations with the current performance of the FW48, Vowles applauded his drivers.
“Well done to Carlos, it was a faultless drive and he did everything he could but that’s just where the car is today,” he added. “And well done to Alex, he drove perfectly and then completed a test programme that will be invaluable for us for future learning.”
Focus on Improvement Before Miami
The teams now have a five-week break before the Miami Grand Prix at the start of May due to the cancellation of the Bahrain and Saudi Arabian Grands Prix in April. Vowles is keen to “maximise” this time.
“These next five weeks will be some of the hardest for us, purposefully so, as we dig deep and make sure that we come back with a car in Miami that is worthy of scoring points.”
Vowles on Bearman’s Accident
Vowles also addressed the heavy crash involving Oliver Bearman in the Japanese Grand Prix.
“On the huge accident for Ollie, I’m glad he has walked away with only minor injuries. He’s a great racer, I’m glad he’s OK.”
Vowles wants Williams to ensure they add performance every race going forward this year.