Williams stumble into 2026 before the lights even switch on
Early warning signs emerge
Williams Racing are approaching the new Formula 1 era with growing uncertainty rather than optimism. Before the team has completed any meaningful on track running, reports have surfaced suggesting that fundamental issues are already undermining preparations for the 2026 season.
According to Spanish motorsport outlet SoyMotor, concerns inside the paddock are centred on weight, reliability and a lack of early mileage, all of which threaten to compromise what was intended to be a clean slate under the new technical rules.
Weight issues raise competitive concerns
According to SoyMotor, Williams’ 2026 car is currently estimated to be between 20 and 30 kilograms above the FIA’s minimum weight requirement. The report states that the car failed FIA weight checks on three occasions, an outcome that has drawn attention from rival teams and engineers.
In modern Formula 1, excess mass has a direct and significant impact on lap time. Paddock estimates commonly suggest that every additional 10 kilograms costs roughly three tenths of a second per lap.
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If the upper end of the reported weight range proves accurate, the performance deficit could approach a full second per lap, a gap that would leave even the most efficient strategies and strongest driver line ups unable to compensate.
Missed Barcelona test deepens the setback
The weight concerns are compounded by another reported blow to Williams’ preparation. According to SoyMotor, the team is set to miss the entire Barcelona pre season test, a key opportunity for early validation of new car concepts.
Such tests are especially valuable at the beginning of a regulation overhaul, when teams rely on track data to identify weaknesses in areas such as balance, cooling and reliability. Missing that running increases the risk that unresolved problems will only become apparent once competitive sessions begin.
Without early mileage, engineers may be forced into reactive development rather than controlled optimisation as the season unfolds.
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A difficult foundation for a rebuild
For Williams, the timing of these reported issues is particularly damaging. The team has spent recent seasons attempting to rebuild its technical structure and close the gap to the midfield, with 2026 viewed internally as a chance to reset.
Starting the regulation cycle with an overweight car and reduced preparation time risks leaving the team in recovery mode while competitors press ahead with development.
If the information reported by SoyMotor is confirmed, Williams may find themselves spending the opening phase of the new era solving basic problems rather than fighting for progress.
Sources: SoyMotor
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