F1 News

Williams team boss reveals reason for driver change, Sargeant disappointed

Williams team boss reveals reason for driver change, Sargeant disappointed

22 March - 09:53
1

GPblog.com

Alexander Albon will finish this weekend's upcoming sessions in the single Williams car. The driver crashed heavily during FP1 and is car is unrepairable due to no spare chassis in Melbourne. During the second free practice, only Logan Sargeant was able to take to the track. Williams have confirmed Albon will finish the weekend in the sole remaining car, originally belonging to Sargeant.

Sargeant explains: 'Tough moment'

Williams' car is so damaged it needs a new chassis. That is not available in Australia, so there is only one car left to drive this weekend. Albon has to take a seat in Sargeant's car, and the American will be out of Formula 1 action this weekend.

"This is the hardest moment I can remember in my career and it's absolutely not easy. I am however completely here for the team and will continue to contribute in any way that I can this weekend to maximise what we can do," Sargeant told reporters after being told he would be out of action.

Vowles reveals reason for switch at Williams

Williams team boss, James Vowles, explains his thought process. "While Logan should not have to suffer from a mistake that he did not make, every race counts when the midfield is tighter than ever, so we have made the call based on our best potential to score points this weekend."

Alexander Albon says he cannot dwell too much on this moment, but he sympathises with Sargeant. "I have to be totally honest and say that no driver would want to give up his seat. I would never want anything like this to happen. Logan has always been a consummate professional and a team player from day one, and this won't be an easy one for him to take. At this point though, I cannot dwell on the situation and my only job now is to maximise our potential this weekend and work with the whole team to make sure we do the best job possible."