Williams' boss reveals 'biggest difference' in Alex Albon since Carlos Sainz arrived

He told the F1 Nation podcast: “I would say the biggest difference I’ve noticed with Alex is a step up in his confidence and belief. That’s the main thing, in the team and himself at the same time.

“Actually, he’s always been very good at knowing what he wants from the car. The best way to explain it to you is that every human being goes through cycles where they’re more or less confident in themselves, in the car, and what goes around."

Vowles said Albon is 'absolutely confident in what he is doing'

He added: “You cannot waiver, Alex, one bit this year. Not for a second can you even just push him. He is absolutely confident in what he is doing and what the car is doing around that.

“That doesn’t mean we’re perfect on the car, not by any stretch of the imagination. But his driving force is one of: ‘Fix this, fix this, and I will go faster,’ and it’s directing the team in the right way.”

Williams are on the right trajectory in Formula 1

Williams has made significant strides forward in recent years, but a reset is expected in 2026.

Formula 1 is introducing new regulations that will feature new aerodynamics and a power unit with 50% electric power.

This may shift the pecking order, and there will also be 11 teams with Cadillac joining the grid next season.

Williams will also have Mercedes power, which is rumoured to start as a very competitive engine in 2026.

Their driver lineup of Sainz and Albon is also very quick drivers who have proven to deliver when opportunities arise. However, the midfield is notoriously competitive and often decided by fine margins.