What's worrying about upgraded Williams as Baku package appears

Williams has spent the 2026 F1 season eating humble pie. After all the talk about building its design and manufacturing structure, it fell flat with a car that was uncompetitive and massively overweight. Development parts have arrived, but none seemed to improve performance. Now, the long-awaited Azerbaijan upgrade is here – with a lighter chassis and small aero tweaks.

Why it matters:

Williams is at a critical juncture. It needs to show that its infrastructure rebuild can translate into on-track progress. This upgrade is the first real test. But rather than revolutionary solutions, Williams needs to do the basics well. The risk is that chasing innovation wastes time and resources.

The details:

• Williams has introduced a significantly lighter chassis for Baku, though the exact weight saving is unknown.
• Aero changes include the removal of a stay supporting the bargeboard footplate to save weight.
• The detail in front of the rear wheel contact patch has been revised to better connect to the tyre squirt, improving underfloor sealing.
• Small changes were made to the brake ducts, rear suspension cladding, and rear bodywork.
• However, there is little here aerodynamically that will close the gap to the midfield – let alone the frontrunners.

The big picture:

Baku has brought a wave of upgrades across the grid. Audi introduced a major package with a new front wing, floor, and rear wing assembly after scoring points in five of the last six races. Red Bull modified its floor and sidepods, Racing Bulls has a new front wing geometry, and Cadillac updated its brake cooling. Williams’ progress must be measured against Racing Bulls, the team it should be fighting at the front of the midfield.

What's next:

The proof will be on the stopwatch. If the weight reduction translates into lap time, Williams can begin to rebuild. If not, the team must re-evaluate its development philosophy. Baku will provide the first clear answer.