Carlos Sainz back on track as Williams runs private Silverstone test

Williams took to Silverstone on Tuesday for a private TPC (Testing of Previous Car) session, putting Carlos Sainz behind the wheel of the 2025 FW47. The run follows a difficult start to the 2026 season – just two points from three races – and offers a chance to regain pace before the Miami Grand Prix.

Why it matters:

• Sainz’s ninth‑place finish in China is the team’s only points; extra seat time could restore driver confidence.
• A five‑week gap between Japan and Miami leaves teams scrambling for data, and a wake‑up test helps Williams catch up.

The details:

• Location: Silverstone Circuit, sunny conditions, using the British Grand Prix layout.
• Car: 2025 FW47 – the chassis that earned two podiums for Sainz in 2025, offering a familiar platform.
• Purpose: Give drivers seat time, collect baseline telemetry and assess tyre behaviour after the April break.

What’s next:

• Williams will head to Miami for the season‑opening race on May 3 with its 2026 car.
• If the test lifts driver confidence, the team could break out of the midfield dead‑lock in qualifying.
• Pre‑season testing at the end of May will further shape development, while rivals continue their tyre programmes.