Carlos Sainz has confirmed his future in Formula 1 by signing a multi-year deal with Williams Racing, ensuring a strong partnership alongside Alex Albon for the 2025 season. This announcement follows Sainz's departure from Ferrari, where he was replaced by seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton.
Sainz, 29, was in high demand during this year’s driver market, with several teams vying for his signature, including Sauber/Audi and Alpine. Ultimately, it was the leadership of Williams team principal James Vowles that swayed the talented driver to join the Grove-based outfit.
“I am very happy to announce that I will be joining Williams Racing from 2025 onwards,” stated Sainz. “It is no secret that this year’s driver market has been exceptionally complex for various reasons and that it has taken me some time to announce my decision.”
Sainz expressed confidence in Williams, emphasizing, “I am fully confident that Williams is the right place for me to continue my F1 journey and I am extremely proud of joining such a historic and successful team, where many of my childhood heroes drove in the past and made their mark on our sport.”
The move comes at a crucial time as Formula 1 is set to undergo significant regulatory changes in 2026, including an alteration in aerodynamic profiles and new power unit regulations that will promote sustainable fuel use. Sainz’s commitment brings much-needed continuity for the team amidst these imminent changes.
“I want to thank James Vowles and the entire Board of Williams for their trust and determination,” Sainz remarked. “Their solid leadership and convictions have played an important role in my decision-making.” He is enthusiastic about the potential for success with Williams, stating, “I truly believe that the core of every successful team lies amongst their people and their culture. Williams is synonymous with heritage and pure racing; the foundations of the project that lies ahead of us are very strong.”
Vowles was equally enthusiastic about the acquisition. “Carlos joining Williams is a strong statement of intent from both parties,” he said. “Carlos has demonstrated time and again that he is one of the most talented drivers on the grid, with race-winning pedigree, and this underlines the upwards trajectory we are on.”
Highlighting the significance of the driver lineup, Vowles added, “In Alex and Carlos, we will have one of the most formidable driver line-ups on the grid and with huge experience to guide us into the new regulations in 2026.”
Williams aims to bolster their competitiveness, a goal reflected in Vowles’ comments about the team's ambition under the backing of Dorilton Capital. “People should be in no doubt about our ambition and momentum as we continue our journey back to competitiveness – we are here, we are serious, and we are investing in what it takes to return to the front of the grid.”
The confirmation of Sainz means that Logan Sargeant will not be part of the Williams lineup for the 2025 season, with the team expressing their support for him as he seeks new racing opportunities. Vowles acknowledged Sargeant's contributions, stating, “I also want to thank Logan for everything he has done for the team and know he will continue to fight hard for us in the races ahead.”
As the 2025 season approaches, Sainz’s partnership with Albon is expected to position Williams strategically as they work to reclaim their status in Formula 1, marking an exciting chapter in both their careers and the team's future.