Williams set for 'tight fight against Alfa and Haas'

The Williams will they finally be on an equal footing with other teams? The FW43 in any case seems more accomplished than its predecessor, which allowed George Russell to take 17th position on the grid for the Austrian GP ahead of the Alfa Romeo of Antonio Giovinazzi and Kimi Räikkönen, failing just 3 thousandths from the Haas de Kevin Magnussen.

“This day exceeded my expectations, recognized the Briton. I knew we had progressed, but I didn't think we would be in this position. Unfortunately, I lost 2 tenths in my last attempt, but the effort was clearly positive. The team did a very good job. »

His teammate Nicholas latifi signed the last time of Q1 at Red Bull Ring, but the rookie was already disturbed by an exit from the track in FP3.

“I'm happy with my first qualifying considering how the morning went. I made a stupid mistake in FP3 and couldn't complete enough laps to prepare for qualifying, recognized the Canadian. Despite everything, I am quite satisfied with my pace, especially since we still have potential in reserve. I hope to have a clean race. »

Last year, Williams had to wait until the 11th meeting of the season with the German GP at Hockenheim for George Russell to offer the only point of the season to the British team.

“The battle will be tough, warned Dave Robson, the vehicle's performance director. We expect a close fight against Alfa Romeo and Haas. It's great to return to competition with a car that can fight. We have a long way to go, but this day allowed us to take a first step towards the middle of the pack. »