Aug.11 (GMM) Alex Albon says his focus stays firmly on Williams regardless of his rising inventory in Method 1 this 12 months.
“I really feel like I’ve put a lot time, vitality and soul into transferring this automotive up the rankings,” the Thai-British driver is quoted as saying by France’s Auto Hebdo.
“It’s clear that my inventory has gone up this 12 months, however my focus stays on Williams. My contract remains to be fairly lengthy, and I need to see the place we’re.”
Final 12 months, whereas already tied to Williams till the top of 2025, Albon prolonged his deal for a “multi 12 months” interval – understood to run to a minimum of 2027.
The 29-year-old is presently having fun with a standout private marketing campaign, heading into the August break with 54 factors in comparison with teammate Carlos Sainz’s 16, and main each in qualifying and the grands prix.
Crew boss James Vowles, nonetheless, has made clear that Williams’ actual goal is 2026 and past, even when which means slipping again on this 12 months’s shut midfield combat.
“Fifth place can be good, however it’s not vital,” he mentioned, explaining that the FW47 has had simply two upgrades all season and can get no extra.
In keeping with Albon, solely McLaren has made extra progress than Williams in recent times. “After I have a look at Williams, and the trajectory we’ve adopted, I don’t assume there’s every other workforce that has had such a fast and steady rise 12 months after 12 months.
“I really feel, rightly or wrongly, that I’ve been a part of that course of,” he added, “and I need to see us go all the best way.”
Albon can also be eyeing the 2026 guidelines reset, when Mercedes – Williams’ engine provider – is tipped to be a frontrunner. Crew boss James Vowles has focused 2027 as the purpose when Williams’ long-term funding ought to ship its largest beneficial properties – a view Albon shares.
“I need to see the fruits of our labour,” he mentioned.
“I really feel like we’ve been profitable after I examine ourselves to different groups. Possibly we will take McLaren out, however McLaren has been constant and has had some robust moments through the years.”
