Williams is struggling with cooling problems that are costing Albon and Sainz important points – Countermeasures are working, but not without side effects
Williams continues to struggle with a persistent cooling problem on the FW47 in the 2025 Formula 1 season, which is costing valuable performance despite short-term countermeasures. While the team is fighting to hold its own in the close battle for fifth place against Sauber and other direct rivals, Alex Albon and Carlos Sainz are particularly affected by overheating problems.
The problem was particularly evident in the races in Spain, Canada, and Austria: Albon had to retire early in both Montreal and Spielberg, most recently from a promising position in the battle for points. Carlos Sainz, on the other hand, suffered from overheating brakes.
“We’ve had several races this season where this cooling problem has affected us,” said team principal James Vowles. “It was particularly evident in the retirement in Austria, when we were in a very strong position.”
To get to grips with the problem, Williams recently ran a modified training program – for example, at Silverstone, where the first practice session was used specifically for testing. “We have different solutions in place for Alex and Carlos to ensure that the car can get through the race distance. But that comes at the expense of performance,” said Vowles.
The team is working flat out to find a permanent solution. Measures currently in place, such as enlarged cooling inlets, could generate additional drag, for example. The shape of the brake ducts and small aerodynamic attachments such as winglets are also being looked at, as they have a major impact on the airflow around the car.
Williams has announced minor improvements for the upcoming race weekend in Spa. “We’re bringing a small update to Belgium. But the key will be to get the maximum out of the car we have available,” says Vowles. “We need to get through our weekends cleanly and take every opportunity that comes our way.”
Despite the lack of major development steps, Vowles believes in the strength of the FW47 – provided the team can get everything right at the track: “We still have some really good races ahead of us. It’s now about delivering the results that are in the car.”
