Williams is in a moment of uncertainty in Formula 1, and James Vowles is starting to come under stronger criticism. The former Haas team principal, Guenther Steiner, assessed the work of the Williams leader and stated that the team must mount a response in 2026.
After the Hungarian Grand Prix, where Williams again struggled with pace, Steiner said the team is “going backwards” and questioned the progress under Vowles’ leadership: “As much as I think he isn’t doing a good job, I think you at least need to give him time to read all the emails he received at the start of the year,” Steiner joked during his appearance on the podcast The Red Flags.
The former Haas boss continued in a sarcastic tone when commenting on Williams’ leadership. “He knows what to do. He just didn’t have time to read them. So, let him read his emails. Find a solution by the end of the year. If he hasn’t gotten through all the emails by the end of the year, then fire him.”
When asked about a possible deadline for Vowles to reverse the situation, Steiner said changes could occur if results do not improve. “If it continues the way it is now, in five or six races [next year], there will be changes. You’ve had enough time to read your emails and improve things. And if you haven’t improved, then you’re out.”
