Sainz Remains Optimistic Amid Tough Start with Williams
The 2025 Formula 1 season has presented a calmer atmosphere in the driver market, particularly following Max Verstappen’s contract extension with Red Bull. This contrasts sharply with the previous year’s turbulence, marked by Lewis Hamilton’s unexpected move to Ferrari, which left Carlos Sainz’s future uncertain amidst various offers.
Sainz ultimately signed with Williams, expressing hope for a competitive midfield car capable of scoring points consistently. "My hopes were that Williams would be a solid midfield car in ’25 that allowed me to fight for points and not be at the back end of the grid," he stated in an interview with RACER. His ambitions extend beyond the current season, as he aims to reposition Williams as a championship contender by 2026.
Despite four top-six finishes this year, Sainz has experienced frustration with the team’s performance relative to his teammate Alex Albon, who has secured 54 of Williams’ 70 points. "I don’t regret the move… 2025 has exceeded my expectations in terms of car performance," he noted, while acknowledging the challenges in maximizing results: "We’ve maximized the weekend in one or two occasions out of 12."
Sainz attributed some of his difficulties to the close competition in the midfield, which he underestimated. "I feel competitive… but the consistency of results hasn’t reflected that," he explained. Williams’ team principal, James Vowles, emphasized a long-term strategy, prioritizing future development and utilizing Sainz’s experience to enhance team operations.
Sainz is actively contributing to structural changes within the team, including the introduction of driver coaches and improvements in simulator discipline. "I could bring out a list of things that I don’t think I want to talk about. The team is making progress…but there’s still a lot to work on," he remarked.
Positioned as a leader within a rebuilding organization, Sainz’s insights are aimed at ensuring the team can compete with established frontrunners. "We are still quicker sometimes when they get it wrong. We look almost like the top of the midfield and sometimes knocking on the door of the top four," he reflected on the team’s potential.
As 2025 progresses, Sainz maintains a forward-focused mindset, content with his decision from 2024 while recognizing the road ahead is crucial for Williams’ future success. His perspective encapsulates a blend of professional optimism and pragmatic realism as he navigates his role in elevating the team within the Formula 1 hierarchy.
