Carlos Sainz at a Crossroads: Williams or Sauber/Audi Await After Red Bull Rejection for F1 2025

Carlos Sainz faces a pivotal choice between two Formula 1 teams following a rejection from Red Bull for the 2025 season.

It's been reported that Carlos Sainz is now left to choose between Williams and Sauber/Audi for the 2025 F1 season, following his inability to secure a spot with Red Bull.

Red Bull officially announced a two-year contract renewal for Sergio Perez before the upcoming Canadian Grand Prix, further limiting options for Sainz, who is on the hunt for a new team for 2025 following his replacement by Lewis Hamilton at Ferrari.

Sainz appeared to be holding off on making a decision about joining either Williams or the Sauber/Audi team, wanting to be certain that Red Bull no longer had a spot for him. It's understood that both teams had extended contract offers to the Spanish driver.

Sky Sports F1 analyst David Croft is of the opinion that Sainz will eventually make his way to Williams.

"James Vowles, the team principal for Williams, is highly motivational. He possesses a clear plan, understands that results won't come instantly, and he's pitching a vision," Croft mentioned in the most recent Sky Sports F1 podcast episode.

He convinced Alex Albon to buy into his vision, who is equally optimistic about the potential of the Mercedes engine for 2026. And the question of whether he can secure Sainz? Indeed, the response is affirmative.

I've communicated with Sainz's team regarding this matter – he's faced with a choice between Audi and Williams.

Audi has not set a deadline. Contrary to what was previously stated, it's incorrect to suggest that a decision had to be made by the end of May. Financial considerations are not driving this; it's more about Carlos's alignment with the future direction.

Would you place your trust in a fresh initiative [Audi], recognized for its repeated successes in global motorsport, yet unproven in Formula 1? Or would you rather rely on a more familiar name [Williams], one with a history of achievements in F1 but has faced a period of decline in recent times?

Honestly, speaking from the heart, I believe he'll make the move to Williams.

"It seems Carlos Sainz is gravitating towards Williams as he can observe his immediate opportunities there. At this point, it's likely difficult for him to grasp Audi's strategy, as there's little information available.

"They haven't assumed control at Sauber; their involvement is limited to creating power units, nothing more. If James Vowles manages to secure him, then kudos to him… because that would be an impressive achievement and establish an outstanding driver duo that could propel the team forward for several years ahead."

As Mercedes seeks a new driver to fill the void left by seven-time world champion Hamilton, they are reportedly favoring the elevation of their esteemed Formula 2 talent, Andrea Kimi Antonelli, to the main team for the upcoming season.

Sky F1 host Simon Lazenby, along with another guest, commented, "I believe Mercedes isn't a viable option for him [Sainz], so it essentially comes down to choosing between Sauber/Audi and Williams.

Currently, the argument in favor of Williams is centered on their performance, especially when comparing it to Sauber's current form on the circuit. Sauber has significant progress to make, yet Williams presents a compelling choice for him right now due to their robust performance.

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