Is Williams facing major F1 disadvantage after missing Barcelona test?

Williams has faced a disastrous start to the 2026 Formula 1 season after missing the first test in Barcelona.

The Grove-based outfit is the only team not at the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya for the five-day test, during which each squad is permitted to run for three days.

RacingNews365 discovered last week that Williams had faced difficulties passing the FIA’s mandatory crash tests, leading to the decision to skip the opening test.

For Carlos Sainz and Alex Albon, the hope is that the British team will be present in Bahrain for the two three-day tests next month; however, by missing Barcelona, a third of pre-season testing has been lost.

Not only has Williams lost a third of pre-season testing, it has also missed the opportunity to gather data across two very different circuits.

While the test is taking place, Williams’ drivers are undertaking simulator work to ensure not all is lost by being absent from Spain.

Is Williams facing a major disadvantage after missing the test in Barcelona?

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