Williams' Dave Robson explains key factors behind getting positive result at Spa

Williams‘ Head of Vehicle Performance Dave Robson has said that finding a balance between downforce and drag will be crucial to getting a good result this weekend at the Belgian Grand Prix.

The summer break is coming to an end with Formula 1 back this weekend and drivers and fans will be looking forward to the racing action at Spa-Francorchamps.

It’s one of the best circuits on the calendar and immensely popular with everyone connected with the sport, so hopefully it’ll serve up another classic.

Of course, last year was a difficult weekend as the 2021 race was curtailed after two laps behind the Safety Car because of heavy rain, and avoiding a repeat of that would be a good start.

For Williams, the aim will be to try and be close to the midfield this weekend, and Robson says the circuit should be one that their car is fairly comfortable with:

“Racing at Spa is one of the highlights of the season and we are very happy to be back. The lap is long and offers almost every possible challenge for an F1 car and driver. The significant elevation changes and the variable weather add to the mix. Everyone knows the circuit well, but it will be interesting to see how this new generation of Formula One car deals with the high-speed corners at Eau Rouge, Pouhon and Blanchimont. 

“Tyre compounds are from the middle of the Pirelli range and are the same as we used a few weeks ago in Budapest. However, the behaviour of the tyres will be quite different at this circuit, and we will need to spend Friday understanding how to maximise their performance here.

“Overtaking is possible in Spa and finding a suitable trade between downforce and drag will be critical to the race on Sunday. The FW44 should work reasonably well in Spa, and we are