Williams chief Vowles rules out Sainz, Albon exit rumors

Williams team principal James Vowles has dismissed speculation that drivers Carlos Sainz and Alex Albon are seeking to leave the team, insisting both remain committed to the long-term project despite a challenging start to the 2026 Formula 1 season. The team currently sits eighth in the constructors' championship with seven points from the opening five rounds, a significant drop from its fifth-place finish in 2025.

Vowles, speaking at the Canadian Grand Prix, directly addressed rumors of driver movement as the mid-season "silly season" approaches. He stated that both Sainz and Albon are focused on the team's development journey rather than immediate results. "In terms of silly season, speak to Alex, speak to Carlos," Vowles said. "They want to be part of this journey, and that's the best I can tell you. My job in this is to make sure they want to as well."

The team's difficulties have been attributed to an overweight FW48 chassis and the challenge of adapting to the sport's new technical regulations. Vowles emphasized that the drivers' commitment is based on seeing evidence of a responsive and improving infrastructure, not merely occasional competitive performances. "The drivers...