Feb 18

Feb 18 Williams completes Silverstone F1 shakedown

Williams Racing have taken their 2023 car on track for the first time at Silverstone.

Following the team launch of the new Formula 1 car - dubbed the FW45 - drivers Alex Albon and Logan Sargeant completed a day of running at the iconic British circuit on Monday.

The Williams FW45 hits the track at Silverstone. *(Williams Racing)*

"I’m really excited to be starting back for another year with the team," said returning driver Alex Albon at the team launch.

"The team has worked really hard last year and over the winter to address some key areas in our car, putting in the work to try and maximise what we get out of the car for 2023, so I’m looking forward to seeing what the FW45 can do."

Alex Albon and team ambassador Jenson Button at Silverston. *(Williams Racing)*

Newcomer Logan Sargeant expressed his excitement to begin his debut Formula 1 season.

"I’m super motivated and we’ve put a lot of hard work in. The car is looking amazing and it shows the huge effort the team has put in the off season."

Logan Sargeant at Silverstone. *(Williams Racing)*

Compared to the 2022 model, the FW45 has raised floor edges to comply with new regulations, as well as an updated power unit cooling layout which has allowed the team to evolve the sidepod concept.

There are also changes to the front suspension layout as well as major external aerodynamic surfaces, as well as changing to a matte colour scheme - all making the FW45 more aerodynamically efficient.

Williams says the changes should add additional overall downforce and improved handling.

The team has added a significant partnership with Gulf Oil International, as well as the instantly iconic Duracell branding on the air intake.