The past few seasons haven’t been very kind to Williams F1. Issues like an uncompetitive car and major financial problems have been plaguing the Grove-based outfit.

While the team isn’t exactly back in the hunt these days, they have improved to a great extent.

Deputy Team Principal Claire Williams recently reflected on the team’s struggles and how difficult it was to move on through tough times.

However, Claire remains optimistic about the team turning things around this season.

It’s been extraordinarily painful: Williams 

After what seems like ages, both Williams cars made it through to Q2 at last week’s Hungarian Grand Prix. While it may not seem like a big achievement, making it past only one qualifying session is nothing short of a ‘win’ for the British team.

We’re 3 races into the 2020 season and Williams is yet to score a point. But not all is lost.

Considering the team’s miserable pace last year, the team is on the rise. It’s not exactly groundbreaking, but Williams is well on its way to challenging other F1 teams. 

Fans have been critical of Claire for the team’s poor showing in recent years. With some even calling for Williams to step aside and restructure the team’s organization.

On a recent podcast with Tom Clarkson and Alex Jacques, Williams opened up about her feelings during difficult times.

Speaking to the F1 Nation podcast, Claire said:

“There’s quite a lot of emotions as you can imagine. We have been through the mill for the past couple of years. It’s been extraordinarily painful unless you’ve actually experienced something like that.

“Don’t forget we were also given quite a beating while we were down as well by some people. It has been really difficult; the emotions are running quite high at the moment and there are a mixed bag of them.

“Relief clearly is flooding through the team. You kind of quickly forget what that does after 2 years. My heart is.. I don’t know where my heart is most of the time, it’s under considerable stress.”

Williams asserted that she felt the team could hold their heads up higher in 2020. Claire concluded by thanking fans who supported the team even in difficult circumstances.