Williams' Barcelona test absence not a 'big loss', says Herbert
F1 expert Johnny Herbert downplays concerns over Williams missing the Barcelona pre-season test, suggesting the delay may have allowed for package refinements. He expects the team to catch up on its crucial testing program during this week's Bahrain session.
Former F1 driver Johnny Herbert believes Williams will avoid a significant competitive setback despite being the only team to miss the official pre-season shakedown test in Barcelona last month. The Grove-based squad, which faced program delays and FIA crash test hurdles, will instead focus its preparations entirely on this week's crucial three-day test in Bahrain.
Why it matters:
Missing valuable track time during a major regulation change is typically a red flag, putting a team on the back foot in data collection and car development. Williams' absence raised immediate concerns about its readiness for the 2026 season, making Herbert's assessment a critical vote of confidence in the team's ability to recover.
The details:
- Williams cited "delays in the FW48 programme" for skipping the Barcelona test, where all other nine teams logged mileage.
- Behind the Scenes: The team faced difficulties passing the FIA's mandatory crash tests, a fundamental hurdle that must be cleared before any official running.
- Alternative Work: While rivals tested on track, Williams drivers Alex Albon and Carlos Sainz were engaged in simulator work to compensate for the lost track time.
- Expert Opinion: Johnny Herbert argues the delay may have provided an unexpected benefit. "Maybe it gives them a little bit of extra time to actually rethink the package they've got," he told RacingNews365.
What's next:
All eyes are on Williams' performance in Bahrain, where it has a compressed three-day schedule to complete the shakedown and performance testing that other teams began in Barcelona.
- Herbert remains optimistic, stating, "Once they get to Bahrain, they'll be able to do exactly what everybody else is doing... I'm sure they will be able to do all the running they need to."
- The true cost of the missed Barcelona running will become apparent only after the Bahrain test concludes and the team's preparation level for the season opener can be fully assessed.