Williams forgoes 2026 aero upgrades to focus on 2027

Williams team principal James Vowles has said it was "horribly painful" for the squad to forego aerodynamic upgrades for the 2026 car and save its cost cap resources for next season. The team struggled with an all-new car that arrived late, was overweight and was aerodynamically underdeveloped, and has scored only 12 points so far this season.

Vowles said aerodynamic gains found in the wind tunnel have been kept off track to preserve spending for 2027. Spare parts are also being stretched to their mileage limits, as the team avoids spending on components that will soon be obsolete. Some Friday practice sessions have been used as test runs to gather data for next year's development.

Vowles said the team is aware points will only come if fortune falls its way with the current car, and that it is better off investing in the future.