Williams Taking Riskier Path, Says Berger

Williams are taking a riskier road this year to try to catch up with Formula One rivals Ferrari and McLaren, BMW Motorsport director Gerhard Berger said on Saturday.

"For this year, we are trying to go a bit more (of a) risky way," declared the former Grand Prix driver at the launch of the BMW-powered Williams FW23 car at Silverstone circuit.

"We have a brand new engine, not one screw is the same as last year's engine, we have new tyre manufacturers and one new driver.

"To close the gap with the front I think we have to approach it in a bit more risky way and that's what we are trying to do. Hopefully we can get closer."

Williams were third in the championship last year, well behind Ferrari and McLaren who between them won all the races, with British newcomer Jenson Button joining for a season that was seen as largely developmental.

Button has since been loaned to Benetton.

"It is highly unlikely that we will be able to completely close the gap," said Berger of 2001.

"But we want to improve our performance so as to be ready and waiting to pounce as soon as one of the Ferraris or McLarens runs into problems."

Team boss Frank Williams said the third place was a surprise in their first year with BMW but he admitted concern that Williams have not won a race since their 103rd victory came in 1997.

The team was the most successful of the 1980s and 1990s, with nine constructors' titles and seven drivers' crowns.

Departing Ship

"It is worrying and uncomfortable and, like being on a departing ship, you worry if you'll ever bridge the gap if you jump," said Williams.

He said that German Ralf Schumacher, younger brother of Michael and now embarking on his fifth year in Formula One, was ready to win a race but he was not sure about Colombian debutant Juan Pablo Montoya.

"I think Juan is convinced he is ready," he added.

BMW Motorsport director Mario Theissen said the new engine, described as smaller, lighter and more powerful, could help make the leap forward.

"Last year's engine was more successful than anyone could expect but to us it was clear that if we want to close the gap between the two top teams and us we have to do an all-new engine."

He added: "We have been doing track tests since the first week of December almost weekly," he said.

The new car was given a shakedown at Silverstone on Saturday before further testing in Spain next week. The team is also due to test in South Africa in February.