In a major move on the F1 driver market, Carlos Sainz has committed his future to Williams, signing a multi-year deal that will see him race alongside Alex Albon starting in 2025.
Photo from Getty Images
The 29-year-old Spaniard has been seeking a new seat after losing his Ferrari drive to seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton. Despite interest from Sauber/Audi and Alpine, it was James Vowles’ ambitious Williams project that ultimately secured Sainz's signature.
"I am very happy to announce that I will be joining Williams Racing from 2025 onwards," Sainz said. "This year’s driver market has been exceptionally complex, but I am fully confident that Williams is the right place for me to continue my F1 journey. I am extremely proud to join such a historic and successful team, where many of my childhood heroes raced. The ultimate goal of bringing Williams back to the front of the grid is a challenge I embrace with excitement and positivity."
Sainz's new contract will see him racing for Williams through a major regulatory change in 2026, which will introduce a new aerodynamic profile and 100% sustainable fuel rules. This continuity is expected to be a significant advantage for Williams as they adapt to the new era of F1.
Photo from Getty Images
Williams team boss James Vowles expressed his enthusiasm for the signing: "Carlos joining Williams is a strong statement of intent from both parties. He has demonstrated time and again that he is one of the most talented drivers on the grid, with race-winning pedigree. Carlos brings experience, performance, and a fierce drive to extract every millisecond out of the team and car."
Vowles added, "In Alex and Carlos, we will have one of the most formidable driver line-ups on the grid. Their belief in this organization’s mission demonstrates the magnitude of the work going on behind the scenes. We are serious about our ambition and momentum as we continue our journey back to competitiveness."
With Sainz joining the Grove outfit, Logan Sargeant will vacate his seat at Williams next year. The team has pledged to support Sargeant as he looks to continue his racing career in 2025 and beyond.
"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," Vowles said.
Williams’ signing of Sainz marks a significant step in their quest to return to the front of the grid, and with the combined talents of Sainz and Albon, the team is poised for a promising future.
Comments
Post a Comment