Williams jump the gun

I'm confused. I know that's not a big surprise to many of you, my default expression usually showing something like that anyway. But that's a new Williams car, right? And Barrichello out testing it in Valencia, yes?

But Williams haven't launched their 2011 car yet. I guess there's no law saying you can't just go out and use your shiny new motor, but tradition suggests that you usually show it off to the press a bit first, whilst your drivers wear freshly-ironed race suits and make sure their hair is combed nicely and they flossed their teeth after last night's super-healthy meal.

Williams never seem particularly bothered with the usual showy bit of F1 though. If it doesn't make the car go quicker, they aren't interested. Good for them. Rather liking the colour scheme I have to say. But apparently that's interim too.

This may all have to do with new signing Pastor Maldonado and his big sponsorship money, of course. Untried in F1, and definitely NOT just a pay-driver (according to the team), Williams really need him to perform. Their history as one of F1's top team is starting to look a bit distant.

In the other seat is F1 pensioner Rubens Barrichello. Still quick (as proven when he had the right car and no team orders at Brawn) and immensely useful in terms of experience, it would be nice for the old fella to get a chance at some more wins.

Unless something amazing has occurred at Williams though, this seems unlikely. The best they can hope for is to move up the pecking order a bit, and hope to do battle with any of the front running teams who have a bad season.

I do hope they can. I really do.

(Still Mr Walker on Radio 2)

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