Carlos Sainz faces an uphill 2025
Aside from Max Verstappen, the undisputed dominant force in modern Formula 1, Carlos Sainz is the only driver to have won at least one race in every season of the current car generation. However, that streak is likely to end in 2025, as the Spaniard will not have a car as competitive as Ferrari was at certain points.
Still, Carlos Sainz remains optimistic about his 2025 season with Williams. In his view, the car built in Grove—unveiled yesterday—starts from a stronger foundation than expected. While the real challenge is 2026, the *Smooth Operator* might still deliver a few surprises next season.
Carlos Sainz’s comments
“I believe first impressions are very important, and mine was very positive. In Abu Dhabi, I found a car that was better than I had expected,” the Spaniard commented. “Obviously, the FW46 had some shortcomings compared to the cars I’ve driven, but it wasn’t far off. You could say that the midfield has closed in on the top teams, which is why in Q1 at Abu Dhabi, we were all within half a second—it came down to half a tenth per corner.”
“I can only say that I found a team full of motivation and energy, which is not easy after a triple-header. Normally, in the Abu Dhabi tests, I see people who just want to go home, but instead, I saw an energy that allowed us to execute the day’s plan perfectly. That day was important, and it will help us in Bahrain.”
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