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Williams won't sacrifice future for "a millisecond more" from 2023 F1 car

Williams team principal James Vowles says he will prioritise investing in the team's future over "putting even a millisecond more" on the team's 2023 Formula 1 car.

Vowles was headhunted by Williams owner Dorilton from Mercedes at the start of this year to oversee a total rebuild of the struggling squad.

He soon impressed on the American investment firm that Williams' overhaul would take years as it is lagging behind its midfield rivals in many areas of its Grove base's infrastructure.

Despite its predicament, Williams has grabbed some standout results with lead driver Alex Albon in 2023 thanks to its efficient FW45, which shines at low-downforce circuits.

PLUS: How Albon’s career stability is aiding Williams in its F1 recovery

Speaking exclusively to Autosport, Vowles says he would do nothing to sacrifice the team's long-term progress for its 2023 performance level.

"My interest isn't on this year. It's not even on next year. My interest is putting in place structures and systems for '25, '26 and beyond," Vowles explained.

"The reason why I explain that to the whole organisation and to tell everyone publicly is the following. It is so easy because that's what Formula 1 is, to be caught in the moment and do everything you can to make the moment better.

"But if you're sacrificing even a little sliver of what's in the future, you're doing the wrong thing."

Source: Autosport

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