Williams 2026 contender, the FW48, has finally made its debut, with Carlos Sainz and Alex Albon shaking down the car at Silverstone.

The Grove outfit missed last week's Shakedown in Barcelona, because of "delays in the programme", according to team boss, James Vowles, however, today the car was on track - though not sporting the livery revealed on Monday - for a promotional filming day, ahead of another 200km filming day in Bahrain next week that precedes the first official test.

"This was a milestone day for us," said Vowles, "and it is always a very proud moment to see a new car on track for the first time.

"The team has absolutely pulled together under the pressure of the situation and delivered a car today for a planned promotional filming day here at Silverstone," he added. "We were able to understand more about our package in preparation for Bahrain next week, and Carlos and Alex were able to provide some positive feedback to direct us, while also identifying some minor issues for us to clean up between now and then.

"The push isn't over yet," he insisted, "this is just the beginning and there is more in front of us."

"First laps in the FW48 done," said Albon. "It wasn't the start to the season we wanted but it feels amazing to be back driving.

"This doesn't define our season," he added. "A big well done to everyone at Grove for the effort and determination to get us here today at Silverstone after a challenging few months. Next stop, Bahrain. Let's make this year a great one!

"Obviously a few bits of data to look at and areas to improve, but generally a fairly smooth day. We had decent weather for Silverstone at this time of year and glad to finally be in the car and driving the FW48. Our full focus is on Bahrain now, looking at the data and getting ready for the start of the season."

"We just had our first laps in the FW48," added teammate Sainz! "It's always an exciting, special day for the drivers, the mechanics and the entire team and it's been a great effort from everyone to get the car on track today. It was a typical winter day at Silverstone, so we focused on getting in our first few laps and completing our shakedown plan. We are ready to fly to Bahrain in a few days where we'll dive into more complete run plans, so I'm looking forward to it!"