F1 grid also shocked by Hamilton: 'Shows how great Lewis is'

Williams launched their new FW46, but the press moments with Alexander Albon, Logan Sargeant and James Vowles also focused on one topic: the transfer of Lewis Hamilton.

"I was surprised. I was shocked," said Sargeant when asked about Hamilton's switch. In a press briefing with GPblog.com and others, Sargeant continued: ''Shows Lewis can go wherever he wants. I was definitely surprised. If that's what he feels will re-motivate him to keep improving and ultimately try and win another world championship, then you have to respect and understand the decision. But I think for the rest of the grid, it opens doors, which is going to make the season even crazier at the summer break.''

What do they think of the Hamilton transfer at Williams?

With Hamilton making the switch from Mercedes to Ferrari, a spot at Mercedes becomes vacant. Albon has been linked with Mercedes' seat as well as Red Bull Racing's. However, Vowles made it very clear that Albon is stuck with Williams until 2025. Albon himself was positively surprised by Hamilton's news, though.

"Great for the sport personally. What's a news story it was. I definitely didn't see it coming but good for him. I think he wants that change up. Timing of it is obviously awkward more because it’s the week before all the teams are doing their announcements. For me, it just shows how big Lewis is. Seeing the stock of Ferrari going up as much as it did. Just seeing the general perception of the news. Definitely to me it was kind of one of them pinch yourself moments. Is this a real story?"

Vowles clearly closed the chapter that Albon could potentially leave at Williams, but worked with Hamilton at Mercedes in the past. How did he view the news that suddenly came out and somewhat embarrassed his old team?

"The timing came as a surprise to me. He wanted and desired to be in a Ferrari at same point in his career. I think, most world champions have either been there or have a desire to be there, because it is of a force of nature, it is still the most successful team in Formula 1. That can't be ignored. It's the hardest thing you do for all of you, for every human in the world, to move from where you are comfortable to where you are not, it challenges you to the limit. The fact that he is doing it, I actually think it is good for the sport, it will be good for Lewis, because he will learn from it and he will challlennge himself."