Paul Williams on the features of the track in Suzuka…

      In the run-up to the Japanese Grand Prix, Paul Williams, the chief engineer of the Williams racing team, spoke about the key technical factors that could influence the weekend's events...

      Question: What are the main technical challenges of the Suzuka circuit?

      Paul Williams: The circuit features a unique figure-eight configuration and includes several well-known corners. It is a fast, smooth track with many high-speed turns and frequent direction changes. Overtaking in Suzuka is not easy, as corners 1 and 2 are quite narrow, and the main straight is relatively short. Last year, new asphalt was laid on the eastern part of the track, and now it is being done on the western section, from turns 7 to 17. Assessing the difference in grip levels will be a key factor throughout the weekend. Since the race takes place at the end of March, it will be cool during the weekend. Good weather is expected on Friday, but the forecast for Saturday and Sunday allows for the possibility of rain.

      Question: How will the transition to the 2026 regulations affect the weekend's events?

      Paul Williams: In Suzuka, there are only two Straight Mode zones – on the main straight and between turns 14 and 15. It is important to find the optimal height for the front suspension for turns 13 and 16 to avoid excessive wear on the control plank. The fast and smooth nature of the track, along with the short lap time, will force teams to actively use super clipping with both low and high fuel levels. In certain sections, drivers will coast to ensure energy reserves.

      Question: What difficulties might arise when working with tires?

      Paul Williams: Pirelli has chosen the hardest compounds capable of withstanding high loads. It is important to understand the impact of the new surface and cool weather on tire performance. We do not expect issues with graining; it is anticipated to be significantly less pronounced than in Shanghai.

      Question: What strategic considerations should be taken into account before the race?

      Paul Williams: The race is expected to be run with a single pit stop, and most teams will prefer to start on Soft or Medium tires. Currently, a two-pit-stop strategy does not seem optimal. For teams to decide to increase the number of pit stops, there needs to be either a significant increase in tire wear or a reduction in tire resources.