General
Albon has learnt a lot despite year out of Formula 1
- GPblog.com
Alexander Albon could have hit rock bottom when he was told by Red Bull Racing in 2020 that he would be replaced by Sergio Perez at the Austrian racing stable. To make matters worse, rookie Yuki Tsunoda was chosen at AlphaTauri. Albon had to watch from the sidelines last season, but instead of seeing it as a negative, he has used it to learn and grow.
Learning year at Red Bull
Albon said in conversation with Motorsport-Total.com that it has helped him to look at how Formula 1 works as a whole and what is involved for a team. According to the former-Red Bull driver, this has been very constructive, as has been able to see what goes on beyond the cockpit and the wider team. He also explained how he learnt from the communication between Max Verstappen, Sergio Perez and their engineers.
Despite not racking up many racing miles [he only competed in the DTM championship], Albon believes he has grown as a driver. All the knowledge he gained last year as a test and reserve driver, he hopes to use from the start in his adventure at Williams where he has signed a one-year contract.
Experience for Albon
For Albon it will be his third year in Formula 1. The experience that the 25-year old driver has at his disposal, will hopefully help Williams progress further after a positive 2021. The Grove-based racing team has had some difficult years in the premier class of motor racing but in 2022 it wants to get back into the midfield. Albon and Nicholas Latifi have an important role in this.
Albon's experience could be crucial if Williams are to reach their targets. With the new regulations coming into effect this year, it is important for Williams to receive accurate feedback so it knows how to continue developing. Albon faces a tough job following George Russell as he heads to Mercedes.