Share

Williams 'weakness' revealed

Valtteri Bottas has admitted Williams is yet to display its full potential in 2014.

Despite a horror 2013 season, following its switch to Mercedes power, the team was billed as a contender for wins and even the title in 2014 on the basis of its performance in winter testing.

Although performing solidly in the three races so far (Bahrain, Malaysia, Australia), Bottas and team mate Felipe Massa have yet to finish on the podium.

'GOOD RESULTS WILL HAPPEN'

Bottas told the Finnish broadcaster MTV3: "Sundays have not been a complete success for us. Certain things, like strategy, have been left to be desired.

"We think really good results will happen, hopefully as soon as possible."

The 24-year-old admitted that the industry-leading Mercedes engine had been an early boost to Williams' 2014 form.

Bottas said: "Especially in Melbourne we felt that the engine was a definite advantage. The difference was smaller in Malaysia  and Bahrain, as the others are developing all the time."

At the same time, the FW36 is consistently showing some of the highest overall top speeds at circuits.

Bottas said: "That also reflects the weaknesses of our car.  Maybe we have a little less drag than the others, because we also have less downforce. Sometimes, what we gain on the straight, we lose in the corners.

It means that, although a pre-season favourite, Williams is currently the lowest-ranked team with Mercedes power, behind the works team, Force India and McLaren.

Stay with Wheels24 for fresh F1 reports daily

We live in a world where facts and fiction get blurred
Who we choose to trust can have a profound impact on our lives. Join thousands of devoted South Africans who look to News24 to bring them news they can trust every day. As we celebrate 25 years, become a News24 subscriber as we strive to keep you informed, inspired and empowered.
Join News24 today
heading
description
username
Show Comments ()
Editorial feedback and complaints

Contact the public editor with feedback for our journalists, complaints, queries or suggestions about articles on News24.

LEARN MORE