Williams confirm no damage to Sargeant’s chassis following FP1 crash
Following Logan Sargeant’s heavy shunt in FP1, Williams has confirmed that the American has avoided further damage to his repaired chassis, however, missing out on running in FP2.
Just halfway through the first session of the weekend, Logan Sargeant found his FW46 crumpled in the gravel after a significant moment through Turn 7.
What was once a yellow flag was soon upgraded to a Red Flag, with the Williams garage’s hearts sinking when a stricken Sargeant flashed on-screen.
The American skated off the kerb and along the grass through the fast-paced Turn 7, sending his FW46 on a rough, bouncy ride into the tyre barrier.
It was a heavy hit for Sargeant, with the car plummeting nose-first into the barriers before the rear rebounded along the border, raising concerns for the repaired chassis on the #2’s car.
Marshals return the damaged car of Logan Sargeant, Williams, to the pits after his crash in FP1. Image: Simon Galloway / LAT Images.
Over the radio, Sargeant apologised to his team, with the Williams mechanics’ hard work since Alex Albon’s crash in Australia seemingly at risk.
Via social media, Williams confirmed that the chassis the #2 was running was free of damage, however, he would not be participating in FP2.
“After a first look at Logan’s car following the FP1 incident, there is extensive damage to the front suspension as well as the gearbox, however the chassis looks okay,” Williams announced.
Later following up with that “due to the extent of damage to Logan’s car, he [would] not participate in FP2.”
“The team will continue repairs in time for tomorrow’s Free Practice session.”
With FP2 predominantly rained out, the disadvantage of less time on track was minimised.
Sargeant will head back out on track for FP3 tomorrow at 1:30 PM, AEST, leading into an always-exciting qualifying session at Suzuka.
2024 Japanese Grand Prix
Friday, April 5
Practice 1: 13.30-14.30
Practice 2: 17.00-18.00
Saturday, April 6
Practice 3: 13.30-14.30
Qualifying: 17.00-18.00
Sunday, April 7
Grand Prix: 15.00
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