Williams worried about winless streak.

Frank Williams has admitted he is concerned that his once dominant team have not won a Grand Prix since 1997, but hopes his 2001 driver line-up will return the Grove team to the winner's circle.

"Its worrying and uncomfortable. Its like a parting ship - you wonder if you'll bridge the gap when you jump," said Williams referring to the 'jump' in performance which the team needs to break the Ferrari / McLaren stranglehold.

Frank Williams has admitted he is concerned that his once dominant team have not won a Grand Prix since 1997, but hopes his 2001 driver line-up will return the Grove team to the winner's circle.

"Its worrying and uncomfortable. Its like a parting ship - you wonder if you'll bridge the gap when you jump," said Williams referring to the 'jump' in performance which the team needs to break the Ferrari / McLaren stranglehold.

Williams also revealed that he hopes ex-driver Jensen Button will shine at Benetton, and will be pleasantly surprised if the Englishman embarrasses his former team this season. "We have a long term interest in him (Button)... I'd be delighted if he won a race," said Williams.

However, Williams is undoubtedly pleased with his 2001 line-up of Ralf Schumacher and Juan-Pablo Montoya, and is unconcerned about any fireworks between the pair: "They both want first place. They are two hardheaded drivers and it's not in their nature to want to be best friends. We like to see two equal drivers giving us two chances of winning."

"Ralf is ready to win races from the start of the season... I'm not sure about Juan - I'm sure he's sure, but we'll have to wait and see," added Williams.

Read More

Subscribe to our F1 Newsletter

Get the latest F1 news, exclusives, interviews and promotions from the paddock direct to your inbox