F1: Williams FW48 Breaks Cover Ahead of 2026 Bahrain Pre-Season Test

Williams has finally lifted the curtain on the FW48, its challenger for the 2026 Formula 1 season, and the timing matters. Williams kept the launch clean and direct, without noise or predictions, which fits where the team is right now. The FW48 has yet to turn a wheel, with Williams the only team to skip the Barcelona shakedown, making the Bahrain test its first proper outing and a critical one given the lack of mileage. In a season shaped by new regulations, every lap from day one will count, especially for a team looking to understand its package quickly.

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The FW48 has been built to suit the 2026 rules, which change how power units, aerodynamics, and energy systems work together. Williams confirmed the car completed its final build before being shipped to Bahrain, clearing the way for a focused test programme. Driver seat fittings and simulator work were done early, helping the team avoid distractions once track action begins.

Williams chose not to run the car in earlier shakedowns, making it the last team to show its 2026 machine. That decision puts extra weight on the Bahrain test, where system checks, setup work, and longer runs must all be covered in a short time. With no previous mileage, the opening sessions will be about making sure everything works as planned.

Bahrain will also be the first chance to see how the FW48 stacks up against the rest of the field. The team will work on finding a solid baseline setup while keeping a close eye on tyre behaviour during race-length runs. Energy recovery and cooling will be key focus areas as mileage builds.

Carlos Sainz and Alexander Albon will split driving duties across the test. Their feedback will guide early balance and drivability changes. Once Bahrain is done, Williams will turn its attention to the season opener, using the FW48’s first real data to shape its early-season direction.