Carlos Sainz Puts an End to Transfer Speculations, Signs with Williams for the 2025 F1 Season

Carlos Sainz revealed on Monday that he had secured a two-year contract to compete for Williams starting in the 2025 season amidst what he described as an “exceptionally intricate” market for Formula One drivers. The 29-year-old Spaniard will depart Ferrari at the conclusion of the 2024 season after seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton was confirmed as his successor at the Italian powerhouse earlier this year. Sainz has clinched three F1 victories thus far in his career, with the most recent occurring at the Australian Grand Prix in March.

Having previously raced for Toro Rosso, Renault, and McLaren, Sainz had been connected with various teams for the 2025 season including Alpine, Sauber, and Mercedes.

However, it was officially announced on Monday that he had reached an initial two-year agreement with Williams, including an option for extension.

“I am thrilled to announce my upcoming collaboration with Williams Racing starting in 2025,” Sainz declared in a team statement.

“It is common knowledge that this year’s driver market has been exceedingly complicated for various reasons and it has taken me some time to finalize my decision.”

He continued: “Nevertheless, I have complete confidence that Williams is the appropriate place for me to continue my F1 journey, and I am incredibly proud to join such a historic and successful team, where many of my childhood idols competed in the past and left their mark on our sport.

“The ultimate objective of returning Williams to its rightful place at the forefront of the grid is a challenge that I am eagerly embracing with enthusiasm and optimism.”

Sainz will take over from Logan Sargeant at Williams, where he will team up with Alex Albon.

Established in 1977 by the late Frank Williams, the team has secured nine F1 Constructors’ Championships and seven drivers’ titles, with Alan Jones, Keke Rosberg, Nelson Piquet, Nigel Mansell, Alain Prost, Damon Hill, and Jacques Villeneuve all being crowned world champion while competing for Williams.

However, Williams has faced difficulties in recent seasons and last achieved a podium finish in 2021, with their most recent race triumph coming through Pastor Maldonado’s surprising victory at the 2012 Spanish Grand Prix.

“Carlos joining Williams is a powerful declaration of intent from both sides,” remarked Williams team principal James Vowles.

“Carlos has consistently demonstrated that he is one of the most skilled drivers on the grid, with a track record of winning races, and this underscores the positive direction we are heading in.”