Williams ‘issues’ cause extra ‘damage’ after Alex Albon and Carlos Sainz miss Barcelona test

Follow us on Google Discover

Williams have started the 2026 F1 regulations era on the back foot, after Alex Albon and Carlos Sainz had to sit out the entirety of this week’s Barcelona shakedown test.

The F1 paddock convened for the first time in 2026 at the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya, as Formula 1 arranged a five-day behind-closed-doors test for the 11 teams to debug their new cars. But Williams announced prior to the shakedown that they would not be going to Spain.

Williams confirmed that “delays” in their FW48 programme meant they would not travel to Montmelo. Instead, the Grove crew staged a series of virtual tests at their factory, although team principal James Vowles revealed they could have made it to Barcelona if they desired.

What is your big takeaway from the 2026 F1 Barcelona shakedown test?

Comment

Like or Comment

Have your say Sign-in now for free

Williams had to spend additional funds to rush the manufacturing of new parts

Vowles elected against Williams making the trip to Barcelona to avoid running low on spare parts during the early rounds of the 2026 F1 season. It was far from the start of the 2026 F1 regulations era that Williams hoped for after enjoying their best season since 2017 last year.

READ MORE: Everything you need to know about F1’s 2026 engine and aero regulations

The consequences of Williams’ delayed start to 2026 could even stay with them throughout this season. That is according to GPBlog, which reports that Williams also suffered ‘financial damage’ after having to manufacture a number of new parts to finally build their 2026 car.

Williams only realised how far behind schedule they actually were at a ‘very late’ stage, so a raft of parts they initially manufactured for the FW48 will never be used on a car that Albon or Sainz will drive. Albon and Sainz are set to get their first laps of 2026 at the Bahrain tests.

Mercedes’ engine reliability in Barcelona will give Williams a crumb of comfort

Barcelona shakedown complete ✅ Which team has surprised you the most? 👇

Comment

Like or Comment

Have your say Sign-in now for free

Formula 1 heads to the home of the Bahrain Grand Prix for two pre-season tests, for which Vowles has confirmed Williams will be ready, on February 11-13 and 18-20. But while Albon and Sainz will put the FW48 through its early paces, their rivals will be chasing performance.

READ MORE: Which F1 teams completed the most laps at the 2026 Barcelona shakedown

Williams may at least get some comfort from the reliability of Mercedes’ new engine for the 2026 regulations at the Barcelona shakedown. The Silver Arrows produced the most laps by any team at 504, and fellow Mercedes customers Alpine and McLaren penned 343 and 285.

Albon and Sainz are behind the curve when it comes to learning Mercedes’ new power unit, though. Vowles admits Sainz was “frustrated” to miss the Barcelona shakedown, but valued the Spaniard’s commitment to helping Williams get ready for the new season at their base.