Vaulz: We don't have Mercedes' infrastructure and capabilities.

      James Vowles, head of Williams, believes that one of the main obstacles to his team's success remains an outdated infrastructure that lags behind their rivals' capabilities. He also admits that Williams finds it difficult to catch up with Mercedes, where he worked for a long time before taking charge of the Grove-based team, whose cars have been fitted since 2014 with engines produced by Mercedes' power unit division. Williams will also use such power units in the coming years.

      "If there's one thing Brackley do very well, it's adapting to a change in the technical regulations," RacingNews365 quotes Vowles. "There's no doubt about that. I'm doing everything necessary to ensure our team continues to grow and can, in the future, reach a higher level and compete for the championship. But for now we don't have the infrastructure and the resources that Mercedes has.

      "So, as of today, everything is simply explained. Basically, while they were largely preparing for the switch to the new technical regulations, working on various nuances and trying to get everything right, I spent that time more on laying the groundwork for the future, while also trying to devote time to the 2026 chassis.

      "In short, my words should be taken this way: I understand which positions Mercedes will be aiming for in the upcoming season, and I have no doubt they will be very strong. I'm fine with that. My goal is for our team to take another step forward every year, and I believe we are capable of doing that."