Williams completes first track day with 2026 F1 car at Silverstone

Williams has completed the first track running with its 2026 car during a promotional day for the FW48 at Silverstone.

James Vowles’ team missed the Barcelona shakedown due to delays with its new car, but the Williams team principal insisted it would be ready to run prior to the start of the two Bahrain tests on February 11. That first outing has now taken place at the home of the British Grand Prix, with both Alex Albon and Carlos Sainz spending time behind the wheel.

“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,” Vowels said. “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.”

The FW48 ran in its fan-selected shakedown livery that should have appeared in Barcelona, and will complete another promotional day of running in Bahrain on Tuesday 10 February – the day before the pre-season test starts – to further prepare for the full track action.

“That’s shakedown done,” Albon said. “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 Albon’s comments, after the pair shared track time to become the final two drivers to get experience of their 2026 equipment.

“We just had our first laps in the FW48!” Sainz said. “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.

“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.”