From Promise to Problems: Williams Thai Driver Faces a Tough 2026
F1’s 2026 regulations refresh has presented a new challenge for every driver on the grid, with complex electrical systems requiring experienced drivers and newcomers alike to relearn the art of racing. Williams’ Alex Albon has had an especially tough time adjusting to this new era. Albon has yet to score a point through the first three grand prix weekends. His best qualifying result was a 15th-place finish at the season opener in Australia. The only time the Thai driver has outqualified teammate Carlos Sainz was at that same grand prix, in a session where the Spaniard did not participate due to an ERS issue. The FW48 has been a disappointment, but Sainz’s dominance in the teammate battle illustrates Albon’s struggles this season. The 30-year-old made his frustration clear with a disgruntled radio message following his early qualifying exit at the Japanese Grand Prix, setting the tone for the rest of the team’s poor weekend.
Back at the beginning of the 2025 season, Albon looked very comfortable in the head-to-head with his ex-Ferrari teammate. As the season went on, Sainz adjusted to his new team and put in some impressive results. Williams’ backbone's nine-point lead in the final standings was undermined by his teammates' two podium finishes. While the technical feedback ace has had a stronger start to the season than his London-born teammate, he is not happy with the position of the team either. The 31-year-old is surprised at how uncompetitive Williams has been, considering they comfortably finished best of the rest in the 2025 constructors’ standings. This year’s car is overweight and has balance issues. The problem of three wheeling has come up, where the inside rear tire occasionally loses contact with the ground when cornering. The result is a 10th-place spot in the standings, equal on points with newcomers Audi.
The Miami Grand Prix is up next, and Williams is hoping to capitalize on the lengthy break preceding it. With some car upgrades and a mental reset, Williams aims to launch into the midfield battle. Last year, Albon matched his best finish in a Williams with a fifth-place result in Miami. While another top five seems unlikely given Williams’ current machinery, a strong performance at a circuit he enjoys could serve as a turning point in a tough start to the 2026 season.
