Formula 1 expert Lawrence Barretto has backed Williams for a podium finish in the upcoming 2024 season.

George Russell sees Williams as last after an incredible first podium at the rain-affected Belgian Grand Prix and a stunning qualifying session at Spa 2021. Since then, Lance Stroll’s 3rd place in Baku in 2017 has ensured that under normal conditions the team has not flown the checkered flag on the podium in six seasons.

But Barretto says that can all change. Alex Albon has impressed for Williams in the 2023 season. The Canadian Grand Prix will be one of Albon’s two P7 finishes. Williams went from strength to strength under team boss James Vowles.

The Formula 1 expert has secured a run at the Champagne event next season thanks to the leadership of team principal James Vowles and star driver Alex Albon.

Can Williams make it to the podium in F1 in 2024? “Williams started the season fearing the worst after losing its team president and technical director in quick succession,” he wrote on F1’s official website.

But James Vowles has steadied the ship after an impressive performance at Mercedes, while Williams carried out impressive development work last winter and a major overhaul has begun in Canada. “Alex Albon led the team like a lion with 27 points out of 28, finished 7th in the Constructors’ Championship and took home tens of millions of dollars in prize money. .

“It’s even more impressive because they didn’t update the car after the 8th race in Canada, the three teams below them also brought a lot of teams with them until the end of the season and Williams focused on getting through the car of 2024 and trying to take continuous steps forward. I will. “They had no chance of a podium finish in 2023, but we expect that to change in 2024, with Albon continuing his wealth of form and getting the most out of the car, and Logan Sargeant raising the bar to ensure both men will score at least one point. Field. Only one.\”