Well aware of this trap, James Vowles is always careful to manage expectations at Williams. The former Mercedes<\/a> strategist is clearly ambitious, but makes sure to avoid any statements that could age poorly.<\/p>\n Nevertheless, it is clear that Williams are aiming high for 2026 – and there is reason to believe they can take the next step.<\/p>\n When it was confirmed that Carlos Sainz<\/a> had signed for Williams, there was debate about the Spaniard’s decision. To some observers, a manufacturer team like Audi<\/a> offered a better chance of long-term success.<\/p>\n It didn’t take long for Williams to prove their credentials and validate Sainz’s decision.<\/p>\n Of course, Williams themselves insisted their focus was on the 2026 regulations, and therefore expected little from 2025.<\/p>\n This makes what the Grove-based outfit achieved this year even more impressive. Their limited work done on the FW47<\/a> was hyper-efficient, inspiring confidence about their chances of doing even better next year.<\/p>\n Whilst giving his reflections of the last twelve months, Vowles made sure to keep the 2026 cars in focus:<\/p>\n “I think its fair to say, it [the team’s 2025 season] exceeds our expectations. We wanted to make a step forward from where we were.<\/em><\/p>\n “We wanted to make sure that we demonstrated to the world we’re a different team to where we have been, and that we’re making strides forward.<\/em><\/p>\n “But never losing focus on our future – i.e 2026 and beyond. And this year, to still hold on to that P5 position, and more than that – have three podiums to our name and a huge points score – that exceeds our expectations.”<\/em><\/p>\n Based on their results before this year, Williams could have been considered a lower midfield team. However, this no longer reflects the reality at the factory in Grove.<\/p>\n Putting aside their results in 2025, the tools at Williams’ disposal are vastly superior from even three years ago.<\/p>\n In terms of size, modernity of simulation facilities and financial security, the team is in its healthiest place for well over a decade.<\/p>\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/lastwordonsports.com\/motorsports\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/12\/2025\/12\/WilliamsF1_163301_HiRes-1024x684.jpg\")
James Vowles pleased with Williams trajectory<\/h2>\n
![\"\"](\"https:\/\/lastwordonsports.com\/motorsports\/wp-content\/uploads\/sites\/12\/2025\/12\/WilliamsF1_149967_HiRes-1024x683.jpg\")
All eyes on next season<\/h4>\n