Williams has announced that Alexander Albon will jump into Logan Sargeant’s car following a nasty crash that the Thai driver faced in the dying stages of the first practice session of the Australian Grand Prix.
Albon’s FW46 crashed heavily at the exit of Turn 6 once the Thai hopeful clipped the wall with its front right tire and spun in the process.
The car ultimately stopped right next to the barrier on the other side of the track with no damage to its front wing.
The Grove-based Formula 1 outfit had to take hard action due to a lack of extra chassis which they have not brought to Victoria’s capital city.
Williams’ team principal James Vowles stated that the gearbox was also damaged and split in half.
Another issue regarding this move is centered around logistics. As Melbourne is on the other side of the world’s map, it would be unrealistic to expect a quick delivery and set up of a new FW46 chassis to Albon’s car.
This also means that the American driver will sit out for the remainder of the race weekend albeit achieving a solid 13th and 14th place in two practice sessions.
The decision to give Albon a chance is based on the possibility of gaining some points.
“One point here will make the difference between sixth and 10th potentially in the championship, simple as that.”
Vowles and Albon expressed gratitude for Sargeant’s decision to allow his teammate to hop into his machinery.
“This decision was not made lightly, and we cannot thank Logan enough for his graceful acceptance, demonstrating his dedication to the team; he is a true team player.”
“This will prove a tough weekend for Williams, and this situation is not one that we will put ourselves in again.” – Vowles noted
“I have to be honest and say that no driver would want to give up his seat. I would never want anything like this to happen.” – Williams’ Alex Albon stated.