New Delhi, Oct 14 (NationPress) Williams team principal James Vowles has showered praise on Alex Albon, labeling his 2025 Formula 1 season as “outstanding”. Vowles emphasized Albon's noticeable “rise in confidence and belief”, which has been pivotal to the team's resurgence this year.

Albon has had an exceptional season, currently ranked eighth in the Drivers’ Championship with 70 points after scoring in 11 out of 18 races. His consistent performances, including personal-best P5 finishes in Australia, Miami, Imola, and the Netherlands, have significantly aided Williams, propelling them to fifth in the Constructors’ standings – a remarkable leap for the Grove-based team. In contrast, his new teammate, Carlos Sainz, who transitioned from Ferrari with four career wins, has only managed to accumulate 32 points this season.

On the Beyond The Grid podcast, Vowles reflected on Albon’s impressive evolution since joining the team. “From the start, I knew he was quick, but he needed the right environment without the constant scrutiny on his teammates and other factors,” Vowles noted.

“Now, there are no questions. Carlos is a benchmark, and Alex has consistently capitalized on every available opportunity this year. His speed has been remarkable. Any lingering doubts should be dispelled by now.”

Vowles believes that Albon’s transformation this season extends beyond just performance metrics; it also encompasses his mental fortitude and burgeoning self-confidence.

“The most significant difference I’ve observed in Alex is a noticeable increase in his confidence and belief,” he elaborated. “This is crucial – both within the team and in his own abilities.”

“Everyone experiences cycles of confidence regarding themselves and the car, but this year, Alex is unwavering. He is completely assured in his actions and the car's performance.”

“While we’re not perfect with the car, his driving mentality is focused on improvement: ‘Fix this, and I will go faster,’ and that’s steering the team positively.”

Albon himself has acknowledged that 2025 is his best season in Formula 1, attributing his success to both his own development and Williams’ concerted efforts to seize opportunities. His maturity and consistency have established him as a vital component of Vowles’ long-term strategy to transform the team into a winning force.

Vowles also commended Albon’s willingness to assist Sainz in adapting to the car’s distinct characteristics.

“Our car has specific quirks regarding cornering techniques, and Alex excels at communicating these nuances and supporting Carlos – he readily shares his insights,” Vowles remarked.

“He openly shares, ‘Look here, this is how I’m managing this,’ and aids the engineers in guiding our approach. He’s been more vocal than I’ve previously witnessed, and his insights are absolutely on point.”