Sainz says Williams' simulator improvements boost confidence ahead of Miami
Summary
Williams driver Carlos Sainz says the team's simulator now matches real‑track data, raising confidence as they work to shed weight and refine the FW45. The crew hopes to demonstrate real progress at the Miami Grand Prix.
Sainz says the Williams simulator is finally delivering realistic data, giving the team confidence as they battle an overweight chassis. The crew is using the break before Miami to accelerate simulation work, pit‑stop practice and weight reduction, hoping to show tangible progress.
Why it matters:
- Accurate simulation cuts costly on‑track testing, vital for a team that has struggled in 2026.
- Better data speeds development of aerodynamic and weight‑saving solutions, directly influencing qualifying and race pace.
- Driver confidence can lift morale and attract sponsorship, key for a rebuilding outfit.
The details:
- Simulator correlation – Sainz noted that sessions after Japan matched real‑track behavior, a milestone after years of investment.
- Weight challenge – The FW45 still exceeds target mass, prompting a focused weight‑saving project across chassis and components.
- Team effort – Vowles highlighted data crunches, accelerated research, and pit‑stop rehearsals as part of a unified push.
- Driver involvement – Both Sainz and Albon have logged extra simulator hours, using the data to shape the setup for Miami.
What's next:
- The Miami Grand Prix (May 1‑3) will be the first test of the new simulation‑driven package.
- Vowles expects a “step forward” but cautions the car isn’t a finished product yet.
- If the data translates, Williams could climb out of the back‑marker circle and fight for points beyond the lone Chinese GP finish.
Original Article :https://www.motorsport.com/f1/news/carlos-sainz-encouraged-by-key-williams-progr...