Williams in the News: Unseen Progress, A Valentine's Day Unveiling and Franco’s Move

The new season is ticking ever closer, and with it comes a flurry of activity at Williams Racing.

From significant behind-the-scenes progress to a cross-grid move, here’s a look at what the media has been saying about us this week.

Team Principal James Vowles has expressed confidence in the strides Williams Racing has made, even if they may not yet be visible to the wider world.

Speaking with Autosport, Vowles highlighted the substantial work being done behind the scenes to transform the team into one that will challenge towards the front of the field.

“I can see a change in what we're doing with infrastructure, culture, people, commercial even – it's just a different world,” Vowles explained.

Mark your calendars: the FW47 will make its debut on February 14. As reported by multiple outlets, including RacingNews365, F1i and SB Nation, the Valentine’s Day event will see the FW47 carry a one-off livery for the Silverstone reveal.

Last week, it was announced that Williams Racing Driver Academy graduate Franco Colapinto had joined Alpine. His journey with Williams has been nothing short of remarkable, with The Athletic highlighting his under-the-radar route from Formula 3 to Formula 1.

As reported by The Independent, the move offers the best opportunity for Franco to get on the grid, with Williams’ seats locked out by Alex Albon and Carlos Sainz.

The mood at Grove reminds Jenson Button of the atmosphere that he first experienced 25 years ago. In an interview with Crash.net, the 2009 World Champion and Williams Brand Ambassador reflected on the similarities between his rookie season in 2000 and now.

“It feels fun, exciting, obviously serious when it comes to racing, but it is a nice family atmosphere,” Button noted.

2025 will mark a quarter of a century since Jenson first arrived in Formula 1, and he’s excited for what could be a memorable year in the sport.

“To see so many teams and drivers fighting at the front and lots of great racing and different winners has been mega,” he explained.

“Leading into 2025 I think we can expect a lot more of that.”