The Williams team experienced a turbulent start to the weekend at the Canadian Grand Prix. During the only practice session before the Sprint qualifying, Alex Albon hit a groundhog crossing the track as he exited the third chicane of the Circuit Gilles Villeneuve. The collision destroyed the front of the car and damaged the left side, causing the second red flag of the session.
Technical analysis: structural damage to the FW46 after the unusual impact 🛠️
The impact with the groundhog caused significant damage to the nose and front wing of the FW46. The carbon fiber structure of the front end was compromised, and the left side suffered deformations that could affect the car's aerodynamics. The team must assess whether the main chassis was damaged, which could limit available parts for the rest of the weekend. The repair will require time and resources that affect preparation for the Sprint qualifying.
Canadian wildlife strikes back: Groundhog 1, Williams 0 🐿️
It seems the local fauna decided to assert its territory at the Circuit Gilles Villeneuve. While drivers fear the walls, no one expected an attack from the curb. Albon, who has already had encounters with bad luck, can now add rodents to his list of adversaries. The funny thing is that the groundhog, after its stellar performance, probably went off to have some maple tea while the mechanics sweat to rebuild the car.