Williams forced to abandon virtual unveiling after being targeted by hackers
F1 team had been due to launch their 2021 car via an app
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Your support makes all the difference.Williams have been forced to abandon their virtual reality car unveiling after they were targeted by hackers.
The Formula One team had been due to launch their 2021 machine via an app, which would allow fans to project the new machine into their homes. But just one hour before the innovative launch, Williams were forced to pull the plug.
In a short statement, the British team said: “Williams Racing planned to reveal its 2021 challenger, the FW43B, via an augmented reality app later today (5th March).
“However, sadly, because the app was hacked prior to launch, this will no longer be possible. We have subsequently removed the app from both the Apple App Store and Android Google Play store.
“We were very much looking forward to sharing this experience with our fans, particularly during this difficult time when being able to bring in-person experiences directly to our fans is sadly not possible.”
British driver George Russell is set for his third season with Williams, tweeted: “Massive shame. I’ve seen the app and it was going to be an awesome experience for you guys. Whoever did this, seriously not cool.”
Williams have finished rooted to the foot of the constructors’ championship for the past three seasons.
The team’s founder Sir Frank Williams sold the F1 operation to US investment firm Dorilton Capital last summer with his daughter Claire Williams relinquishing her role as the de facto team principal.
PA
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