Williams understands better its early-season woes
Williams’ technical chief Pat Symonds seemed to be confident that Williams are getting on top of their issues which hampered the team in matching its previous results from the last two years. He also stressed the importance of next year's developments.
Williams made a breakthrough in 2014 when it could challenge for top position again after years of struggles. The Grove-based squad was helped by its dominating engine partner Mercedes, but it also had an aerodynamically efficient car.
2016 brought a dip in performance and therefore also in result. Williams could not repeat its strong form from the last two seasons. Its senior technical member Pat Symonds sounded confident when he was asked about Williams progress.
“Well, I think we’re getting on top of it,” he started.
“It does seem that Canada was a long while ago – we were on the podium there – but it was only five weeks ago. But three races since then, Baku, Austria, Silverstone, and I feel in all three of those we haven’t performed in the way I expected to.”
Symonds also revealed that ist technical group started to shift its focus on next year’s development as 2017 brings a package of new aerodinamic and tyre rules.
“We’re pretty focused on 2017 now, as I’m sure all the teams are, because there is so much work to do."
Regulation changes often mix up the field and can unsettle actual leading teams. It is also a possibility for smaller teams to shine.
“There is so much to be gained in the early part of the learning curve that you can’t afford to leave things too late. It makes it quote challenging of course.”
The Briton also revealed that it is not worth completely abandoning actual development as some of non-aerodynamical development can be carried over to next year.
“But of course not all development is aerodynamic and while the wind tunnel is pretty devoted to 2017 work, there are other areas where principles do carry over, so we’re still carrying on in those areas,” added Symonds.
