Carlos Sainz has confirmed his move to Williams Racing, signing a two-year contract with the option to extend beyond 2026. This decision marks a significant moment for both Sainz and the team as they look to forge a new path in Formula 1.
After being informed of his release from Ferrari earlier this year, where he was set to be replaced by legendary driver Lewis Hamilton, Sainz found himself without a seat for the 2025 season. Despite a stellar performance in the 2024 season—highlighted by securing his third career victory at the Australian Grand Prix—Sainz was linked to other prominent teams, including Mercedes, Alpine, and Audi.
Ultimately, the 29-year-old has chosen to partner with Williams, stating, “I am very happy to announce that I will be joining Williams Racing from 2025 onwards.” He acknowledged the complexities of the driver market this year, explaining, “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 the team’s historical significance and potential for future success: “I am fully confident that Williams is the right place for me to continue my F1 journey... The ultimate goal of bringing Williams back to where it belongs, at the front of the grid, is a challenge that I embrace with excitement and positivity.”
With Sainz’s arrival, he will join Alex Albon for the upcoming season, replacing Logan Sargeant. This pairing has generated excitement within the Williams camp. James Vowles, the Williams team principal, remarked, “Carlos joining Williams is a strong statement of intent from both parties. 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.”
Vowles also highlighted the significance of Sainz's experience, saying, “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.”
The Williams team has been in a rebuilding phase, and the addition of Sainz suggests a commitment to improvement and competitiveness. Vowles added, “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 with Dorilton’s backing we are investing in what it takes to return to the front of the grid.”
As Sainz prepares to cap off his time at Ferrari, he expressed gratitude towards the team's leadership for their support in his decision-making process. He stated, “I want to thank James Vowles and the entire Board of Williams for their trust and determination. Their solid leadership and convictions have played an important role in my decision-making.”
Overall, the signing of Carlos Sainz by Williams not only showcases the team's ambition but also opens a dynamic chapter for the driver himself. Both parties are looking forward to the challenges and triumphs that lie ahead as they aim to bolster Williams’ standing in the competitive world of Formula 1 starting in 2025.