Sir Frank Williams’ eponymous team remains Formula 1’s purest: it exists only to race.
That focused approach reaped huge rewards in the 1980s and 1990s as Williams surged to multiple titles with Honda and Renault power and driving legends such as Keke Rosberg, Nelson Piquet, Nigel Mansell, Alain Prost, Damon Hill and Jacques Villeneuve.
Sadly, as the big manufacturers increased their grip on Formula 1, and since its split with BMW at the end of 2005, Williams has struggled as an independent.
With Cosworth engines, the demise of several big-money manufacturer-backed teams and the addition of the hugely experienced Rubens Barrichello to the driving front, the leaner Williams outfit underwent something of a resurgence in 2010. Fourth place for Rubinhio in Valencia didn’t mark a return to the good times, but it did at least indicate that Williams’ fortunes are heading back in an upwards direction.
Having to drop the talented Nico Hulkenberg from the second seat is a shame for both team and driver, but Pastor Maldonado at least brings solid GP2 experience and a wealth of funds to replace several big-money sponsors. Williams, should be able to compete more effectively against its experienced rivals again in 2011, but it still needs to be aware of the rookie teams snapping at its heels.
Bruno Senna Pastor Maldonado