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Williams appear to have confirmed that Logan Sargeant will remain with the Formula One team for the 2024 season despite his contract with the team having expired. The American driver was heavily linked with a move away from the team following a difficult season but now seems set to stay put.
Sargeant’s future with the team was seemingly revealed following the season-ending Abu Dhabi Grand Prix. The driver ended the race in 16th place following a challenging rookie season – seeing him finish 22nd overall with a single point to his name.
After passing the chequered flag the 22-year-old spoke to his team over the radio to reflect on the campaign. And several comments suggested Sargeant will be part of the team for the new season.
“P16 and we are seventh in the [constructors’] championship,” his engineer Gaetan Jego said. “I think that was a good race. Thank you for this year, it was a pleasure to be alongside you this year. Thank you, mate.”
Sargeant responded with his own analysis of the season, adding: “Thank you guys very much. Obviously, we’ve had our ups and downs, but I really feel there’s momentum building, and just getting stronger and stronger.
“Couldn’t have chosen a better group of people to spend it with. And yeah I just hope we can continue it. Thank you guys.”
Jego’s response left a clear impression that Sargeant would be remaining with the team in the new year, despite no official announcement having been made. “Thank you, Logan. Looking forward to next year buddy,” Jego said.
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Further confirmation that Sargeant’s future with the team had been agreed then came via Williams team principal James Vowles. “Well done, I’m sorry we didn’t have the car underneath you today to do more than that,” Vowles said.
“You’re contribution this year has been excellent. It’s been a proud moment to watch you grow across the season so far. Looking forward to the winter together and many more.”
Despite his comments, Vowles was quick to backtrack on his claims when asked to clarify his comments by F1TV. “I’m afraid you’re getting ahead of yourself,” he said.
“But whatever happens, Logan has been in our academy for many, many years. He will always remain a part of our academy. He’s still an excellently quick driver.
“But I think also, if we step away from that and look at the last five races and how he’s been improving, I think you can see signs that he’s doing what we need to earn the seat.
“But we’re not in a position to confirm that at this point in time. The main thing I want him to be aware of, is I’m proud of the steps he’s made.”
2023 Formula 2 runner-up, Frederik Vesti has been linked with taking Sargeant’s place in the team following his impressive year in the driver’s seat. However fans will have to keep waiting for official confirmation before seeing who will be racing for the team come the new season.
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