James Vowles: Williams will succeed

In the second half of February, James Vowles took over as head of Williams. The British specialist told the team’s press service how his first week in the new role went and outlined long-term plans.

James Vowles “The first days as head of the Williams team were tense, but exciting in a good way. This time of year is a challenge for everyone in Formula 1. We are now seeing the culmination of many months of designing and building a car with thousands of parts. Then the team went to the track to evaluate their work.

In my first week of work there was a meeting of the Formula 1 committee, an important event where all teams come together to discuss further steps in the development of the sport. Immediately after the meeting I went to Bahrain to work with the team and see how pre-season testing is going. Then I returned to base for a few days before heading back to Bahrain for the first leg of the season. Busy is the right word to describe my first week of work!

The team made a positive first impression on me. First of all, we made sure that we have a reliable car. We have a good basis to continue our work, and that is no coincidence. The team has transformed significantly over the past six months – the changes were even greater than in the past five years. Despite all the difficulties, we managed to make a car that took to the track.

Pre-season testing went like clockwork – we brought the car to the track, filled up with fuel, installed tires and drove off. This is no coincidence – this result was the result of the fundamental work of everyone in the Grove and Bahrain, which enabled us to achieve our goals.

The team worked successfully on the stages, the riders also did well. Alex gave great feedback. He understands exactly what needs to be done – he’s competitive and wants to get the most out of the car and himself, and his attitude immediately catches the eye.

As for Logan, of course he has no experience, but he has absolute speed. It worked great every time I hit the track. He can’t wait to get behind the wheel again – that’s a very accurate description of his mood. He has a natural talent and now it is the team’s job to provide both drivers with such a car so that they can prove themselves.

I couldn’t turn down Williams’ invitation because it’s an opportunity for me to do something important, to make my mark. I hope that this project, like many others I have been involved in, will be a success. I’ve been lucky enough to work with teams and win Formula 1 with them, but there’s nothing more inspiring than the opportunity to do something with your own hands, to lay the foundations for success. Now we strive to establish fundamental principles that will remain in the team not for one year, but for three to five years.

It will take time – we certainly cannot and are not willing to sacrifice these principles for short term gains with the FW45. This does not mean that we will give up the fight for possible points next season. That means we should always look to the future.

The 2023 season starts in a few days. I’m excited – I’m sure, as are all of you reading this. I work in Formula 1 because I love the sport to which I have devoted myself for many years. Formula 1 is my life, as is the life of all members of our incredible team. We are ready for the moment when the starting lights go out in Bahrain.

I know that in the days of victories and defeats we are supported by a huge number of incredible fans. I ask you to keep your passion and strength. Williams has long-term plans and we will succeed.”