Williams Team Principal James Vowles weighs in on Ferrari, addressing rumors regarding potential setbacks with the development of the new 2026 Power Unit
James Vowles has no doubts. James Vowles is certain. This is perhaps the best way to summarize the recent interview given to RacingNews365 by the Williams Team Principal.
The former Mercedes strategist and protégé of Toto Wolff commented on the persistent paddock rumors suggesting that Ferrari might be lagging behind in the development of the 2026 engine.
In a year that will be defined by sweeping regulatory changes and a complete overhaul of car philosophy, there is very little certainty about who will lead the pack—a sentiment recently echoed by Ferrari Team Principal Frédéric Vasseur.
Vowles’ Outlook: “2026 won’t be a replay of 2014”
Now in his fourth year at the helm of the Grove-based outfit, Vowles successfully guided the British team to fifth place in the Constructors’ Championship last season. This marked their best result in nine years, dating back to 2017 when Felipe Massa and Lance Stroll secured 83 points.
Discussing his vision for the upcoming championship and Williams’ own ambitions, Vowles stated: “No one knows—none of the engine manufacturers know exactly where they will end up“.
“A narrative is forming that there will be massive performance gaps, but that is purely speculation. As for our aspirations, finishing in the top three would exceed our expectations. I’ve said it before and I mean it: improving year-on-year is a reasonable goal for us”. “.
Finally, offering a broader perspective and a specific comment on the Scuderia, he added: “This year, Honda produced a benchmark engine. Therefore, I don’t believe we’ll see a repeat of 2014, where there was such a clear breakaway involving specific teams”.
“Regarding Mercedes, we have been working specifically on 2026 with them since the beginning of 2024, when we signed our agreement. I highly doubt that Ferrari is struggling. I doubt they’ve done a poor job; they are very consistent at delivering strong results year after year “.
Photo: Atlassian Williams Racing
