F1 | 2026 Rules, Vowles: "I doubt Ferrari did a bad job."

James Vowles believes Ferrari will be prepared for the new regulations that will come into force next season. Williams' team principal, discussing the regulatory changes that will usher in a new era in the sport's history with the introduction of future power units, is confident the Prancing Horse team will improve on its recent performances.

Ferrari was one of the unlucky protagonists of 2025, failing to score a win in 24 GPs, finishing the season fourth in the Constructors' Championship behind McLaren, with whom it had battled for the title just a year ago, Mercedes, and Red Bull. Therefore, 2026 presents a crucial opportunity for the Prancing Horse to change course.

"Nobody knows, none of the engine manufacturers know where they'll end up," Vowles said, quoted by RacingNew365. "Part of the speculation that's emerged has been about a team and a PU manufacturer trying to create a narrative to get some changes, to be completely clear. But nobody really knows. I highly doubt Ferrari has done a bad job; they're very good at getting positive results year after year."

Vowles, continuing his analysis, said: "Honda has produced a benchmark engine this year. So I don't think it will be like 2014, when there was such a clear breakaway involving all the teams. Mercedes, we've been working specifically on the 2026 engine with them since the beginning of 2024, when we signed the agreement. What I can say is that they've done a good job of preparing. Let's see what comes of it."

The Williams team principal then spoke about the Grove-based team's expectations: "Regarding our aspirations, finishing in the top three again would be above our expectations. I made this comment and I truly believe it: improving year after year is a reasonable goal for us."