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How to beat the budget and your competition - interview with Williams F1 Team

27.05.2014 - Williams F1 Team has finally revealed their car, Williams S9 Rev 00, and it seems to be one of the better cars at the moment!

After unveiling seremonies, team spokesperson looni had at last some spare moments to answer few questions about the car and goals of the team for this season.

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What was the starting point when Williams F1 Team started developing Williams S9 Rev 00?

Time-wise all teams started from the same point, but money-wise we were right away behind everyone else. Our starting budget was only 45 million Euros. We simply can't afford a world class Testing Rig or a 50 floor Team Headquarters. Furthermore, our sponsor won't get more than a warm handshake and owners of Williams have to use their own money to hire employees.

That said, even with the most modest facilities of all the teams, we use 30% of this season's budget to Facility Maintenance.

You have clearly the lowest budget, but still your car is 6th when you compare the Total Statistic Points of all the cars. How is this possible?

What we can't get with money, we compensate with time. Our employees can't work that effectively day after day because of the inadequate facilities. That's why we reserve plenty of time for each project, so our financial handicap can be overcome with hard, honest work.

Is this why it took you so long to reveal your car?

Actually most of the car was already ready a week ago, but we didn't want to reveal it until every last part was finished.

How have your drivers commented Williams S9 Rev 00?

Both Häkkinen and Laine have already given feedback about the car. Both of them are starting the season with very positive attitude, because they were truly surprised how good the car turned out to be. Laine especially can't wait to hit the track.

How do you think Williams will do in the Australian GP?

Albert Park isn't the most optimal track for our car, but we still believe in strong finish. In Qualifying we will be around grid places from 11 to 14. I think that both our drivers can improve their placing during the race, and we'd be extremely satisfied if both of them can score points.

What will Williams do to keep up with their competition?

I can't really share details at the moment. We put the budget for the season together few nights ago, and I can say that we won't have any problems spending all the money we have.

Where will Williams place in the Constructors' Championship? What about Drivers' Championship?

I'm a realist. We won't be fighting for podium in either of them. Our goal for this season is to rise from our current last spot in team rankings and thus get more financial leeway. The road to the top is going to be long and winding, but I think our team and our drivers are ready for that challenge.

Finally, any tips for aspiring F1 managers what they need to build a competitive car with a small budget?

Excel, coffee and couple of nights to compose your season plan.

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Thanks for the interview and good luck for Williams F1 Team on the very first F1 season!