Williams have confirmed Alex Albon will take over Logan Sargeant’s car for the remainder of the Australian Grand Prix weekend following his crash in Friday’s first practice session.
Albon lost control of his car at the exit of Turn Six during FP1, running over the kerb before spinning into the wall on the other side of the track.
He was unharmed in the incident but was forced to miss FP2 as Williams assessed the damage to his car, which has been deemed too significant for the team to continue using the chassis.
With no spare available, the team have opted to withdraw Sargeant and have Albon participate in the American’s car for the remainder of the weekend.
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In a statement, team principal James Vowles said: “It’s unacceptable in modern-day Formula One not to have a spare chassis, but it’s a reflection of how far behind we were in the winter period and an illustration of why we need to go through significant change.
“As a result, we have had some very difficult decisions to make this afternoon. While Logan should not have to suffer from a mistake that he did not make, every race counts when the midfield is tighter than ever, so we have made the call based on our best potential to score points.
“We cannot thank Logan enough for his graceful acceptance, demonstrating his dedication to the team; he is a true team player.
“This will prove a tough weekend for Williams and this situation is not one that we will put ourselves in again.”
— Williams Racing (@WilliamsRacing) MARCH 22, 2024
Albon said: “I have to be totally honest and say that no driver would want to give up his seat. I would never want anything like this to happen.
“Logan has always been a consummate professional and a team player from day one, and this won’t be an easy one for him to take.
“At this point, though, I cannot dwell on the situation and my only job is to maximise our potential and work with the whole team to make sure we do the best job possible.”
Albon earned 27 of Williams’ total of 28 points in 2023 as they finished seventh in the constructors’ championship.
The moment Alex Albon brought out the red flags 💥#F1 #AUSGP PIC.TWITTER.COM/OSZ5NAXKQR
— Formula 1 (@F1) MARCH 22, 2024
