Carlos Sainz Embraces New Challenge with Williams

Posted : 11 December 2024

Carlos Sainz is fully aware that the journey to elevate Williams up the Formula 1 grid will be a gradual process, but the 30-year-old Spaniard expressed an unmatched motivation for the task ahead. After testing with Williams at the end of the season, he posted the second-fastest time behind Charles Leclerc, with both drivers exploring different setups and run plans.

Having spent four years together at Ferrari, where they secured second place in the 2024 constructors' standings, Sainz is now looking to a new challenge with Williams, a team currently far from podium contention.

Sainz emphasized that his past successes with Ferrari, including podium finishes and team achievements, no longer drive him as much as the new project with Williams. "I've done that with Ferrari," he remarked, indicating that his primary focus is now on helping a historically successful team regain its competitive edge.

While Ferrari finished the season strong, with a close battle against Red Bull and McLaren, Williams ended in ninth place in the constructors' standings, 29 points behind eighth-place RB Honda. However, steady progress has been made since the team’s acquisition by Dorilton Capital in 2020.

The signing of Sainz by Williams, under the leadership of James Vowles, is part of a long-term strategy to return the team to its former glory. Sainz's veteran presence, alongside Alex Albon, is seen as a critical step in this revival process.

Despite Williams' current standing, Sainz's enthusiasm for the challenge is undeniable. He expressed an overwhelming sense of anticipation for the project, describing it as "unbelievable" and a great motivation for his future in Formula 1. "Being part of that motivates me a lot," he added, highlighting his desire to help Williams become a top team once again.

Although Sainz had a successful final season with Ferrari, including a win at the Mexico Grand Prix, his departure was inevitable following the announcement of Lewis Hamilton replacing him. He took time before agreeing to join Williams, a decision he made five months after learning of his exit.

Reflecting on his final year at Ferrari, Sainz admitted it was difficult to race knowing his time with the team was coming to an end, despite the support he received. He believes the experience will help him with future challenges, especially as he embarks on this new chapter with Williams.

Carlos Sainz Embraces New Challenge with Williams

ADD A COMMENT :

Hot Topics