Williams Racing has become the next team to reveal their 2022 contender ahead of the season’s start.
At their official launch online, the team showcased their new livery on a show car while later today, Nicholas Latifi drove a completely different machine at Silverstone.
In a statement, the team said: “After months of anticipation, we are delighted to finally reveal our livery for the FW44 ahead of the 2022 FIA Formula One season.
“The fresh new design features a contrasting diamond shape with flashes of red and blue, embodying this exciting new era for the Williams Racing brand, whilst still retaining the classic team spirit.”
The FW44 features several aerodynamic changes to that of its predecessor, according to the team, including over-wheel winglets and wheel covers, 18” low profile Pirelli tyres, and rolled tip rear wings.
There are also changes to the front wing and nose, as well as underfloor tunnels, which will allow cars to create efficient downforce through ground effect.
Nicholas Latifi will partner Alex Albon this season, as the ex-Red Bull driver returns to the paddock after a year out.
Team Principal, Jost Capito says the new car encapsulates their move towards the future while maintaining the characteristics of one of the most historic teams.
“Over its history as an iconic Formula One team, Williams Racing has shown great strength and sophistication,” he said.
“The new visual identity of the 2022 car perfectly encapsulates these characteristics that the staff, drivers and fans have demonstrated time and time again.
“As we move into the new era of our sport, the FW44 highlights the transition to the future, as well as acknowledging the timeless qualities that make us who we are.
“Last season we were thrilled and proud to make such strong advancements as a team, with a number of well-earned points-scoring results in addition to a podium.
“Looking forward, we want to build on this success, and the FW44 perfectly embodies these ambitions to return to the front of the grid.
“I look forward to witnessing this progression with Nicholas and Alex at the helm.”
New regulations have brought with them a dramatically different look to cars up and down the paddock, with the hope of bringing on closer racing.
“I’m a fan of the new livery,” said Nicholas Latifi.
“Keeping the blue was important as it’s synonymous with Williams, but it’s a pattern we’ve not seen before and the fluorescent red will pop on track which I really like. It’s a fresh new look to start off the new era of F1.”
Alex, who is readying himself for his first season with the team, then said: “The FW44 livery is clean and simple.
“I like that we’ve gone for more blue with the dynamic diamond finish and a little bit of red; it looks really good and I’m looking forward to seeing it out on track.”
