Williams releases first 2017 car images

Williams has released the first images of a 2017 Formula 1 car, launching a video of the FW40 on Friday morning (below).

With new aerodynamic regulations resulting in changes to car design this year, Williams has become the first team to show off its car ahead of physical launches next week. The video only features a rendering of the FW40 – named due to 2017 being the team's 40th anniversary – but still gives the first look at the type of car the new regulations will result in.

Clearly visible are the lower and wider rear wing – similar in mounting to the Ferrari mule car used for Pirelli tire testing last year – while the swept-back front wing can also be seen. Williams has maintained similarities with its nose and sidepods from last season as it looks to continue close to the concept that saw it finish third in the constructors' championship in 2014 and '15. On those occasions, an aerodynamically efficient car allowed the team to further exploit its Mercedes power unit.

Williams will physically unveil the FW40 on Feb. 25, two days before the start of pre-season testing in Barcelona. The schedule means there is at least one launch taking place from Monday, Feb. 20 until the start of testing a week later, with Sauber due to unveil its new car on Monday.

This year's Williams will be driven by Canadian rookie Lance Stroll, with the 2016 European F3 champion joining Felipe Massa who reversed his decision to retire to replace the Mercedes-bound Valtteri Bottas.