A shock announcement saw Carlos Sainz out of a seat for 2025 before the 2024 season had even kicked off. This meant that Sainz would have to look for a new team if he wanted to stay in Formula 1. Luckily, teams lined up for the Spanish driver to join as he is a race winner with a decade of experience in F1. Sainz would become the main driver to dictate almost all other 2025 driver lineups.
There were loads of driver signings in 2024 for the 2025 season, Hamilton to Ferrari, Hulkenberg to Sauber/Audi and Ocon to Haas. But the most notable move of all was that of Carlos Sainz to Williams. In an exclusive interview with Motorsport.com, Sainz opens up on his move to Williams and the struggles it brings.
Carlos Sainz went from Smooth Operator to the heart of Williams’ masterplan
Carlos Sainz had a difficult decision ahead of him during the 2024 campaign. Sainz found that finding a seat within the current grid brings many complexities with it. Several considerations make it complicated, such as teammates and current and future performance, with the 2026 regulations incoming. In the end, Sainz chose Williams as he believes they can rise back to the top with James Vowles at the helm.
Sainz talks to Motorsport.com about the integration to Williams and how difficult the transition has been:
“I think this topic is getting so much attention because a great driver is currently facing the difficulties of changing teams. Now people are noticing something I’ve long been familiar with – I’ve switched teams five times. I remember my year at Renault, two years at McLaren, and back then when I said I was still adapting, I don’t think people understood what that meant. ‘You’re an F1 driver, you’re supposed to adapt quickly’ – but I don’t think people truly grasp what that involves.”
Carlos Sainz Sets the Record Straight on His Goals with Williams
“It’s not an excuse, but now this issue is better understood. I speak with other drivers who’ve changed teams, and they all say that without testing, the only way to try things is during race weekends – and that obviously puts you at a disadvantage. But it’s the only way to grow, and that process takes time.”
Carlos Sainz needs time to adjust, but so far this season, we’ve already seen some serious performance from the Spaniard. He managed to score points in four consecutive races earlier this year.
