With the start of the summer break, Carlos Sainz announced that his post-Ferrari journey will continue at Williams from the 2025 Formula 1 championship. Despite offers from Stake Sauber and Alpine, the Spaniard opted to join the team led by James Vowles. However, former Haas team principal Guenther Steiner warns the #55 driver to watch his back for the upcoming season.
The Spanish driver will team up with Alexander Albon, potentially forming one of the strongest line-ups for 2025. But since then, Williams has welcomed Franco Colapinto, who has impressed the entire F1 paddock with his performances.
Franco Colapinto joined mid-season directly from F2 as a replacement for Logan Sargeant but drove with authority despite his inexperience. The young Argentine could potentially threaten the position of both drivers in the near future.
“Williams will watch next year when Carlos drives the other car and then see where Alex stands,” Guenther Steiner said on the Red Flags podcast. “If they’re equal, they’ll say: ‘We have Colapinto, who is 10 years younger than these guys and costs a lot less, but lacks driving experience.’”
“It’s a good position to be in. I’m sure they’ll try to find him a seat, people will be watching him,” continued the former Haas TP. “He’s had a few minor incidents, but then he puts the car in the right place.” In this context, Guenther Steiner referred to Franco Colapinto‘s impressive overtake on the first lap of the Singapore GP.
“It’s impressive what he’s done. He saw a gap and went for it. He’s there to prove he can stay. In my opinion, he’s done that. In three races, he’s shown he deserves to be there.” – the former Haas team boss pointed out.
However, Guenther Steiner also admits that Williams will not regret choosing Carlos Sainz for next Formula 1 season. “I don’t think they’ll regret having someone like Carlos Sainz. He’s always good for a team,” said Guenther Steiner. “Obviously, he’s a big help, he draws other people in.”
“James Vowles can be proud of having discovered Colapinto. But why did he find him three months late? I would try to get him to Audi. I have no idea if they want him or not. He’s proven he can do it, so why not? Otherwise, there aren’t many options. Alex Albon has a multi-year contract with Williams. So does Carlos. Colapinto is between a rock and a hard place.” – the former Haas team principal concluded.
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