Carlos Sainz Eyes Future Success with Williams After Predicting McLaren’s Rise

Carlos Sainz suggests Williams could follow in McLaren's footsteps for success and draws an interesting parallel between the two teams.

Carlos Sainz foresaw the ascent of McLaren and asserts he has a similar intuition about his future squad, Williams.

At the beginning of the year, Sainz was aware he would be replaced by Lewis Hamilton at Ferrari in 2025, positioning him as a central figure in the Formula 1 driver negotiations for an extended period.

He maintains that upon leaving McLaren, he anticipated the achievements the team is now realizing this season. Sainz recognizes similar qualities in Williams, the team he is set to join the following year.

Sainz expressed at the F1 Dutch Grand Prix in Zandvoort, where Crash.net was present in the paddock, that throughout the negotiation processes, he consistently considered Williams, attributing this to the positive rapport he shared with James Vowles and the Dorilton investment group.

Over time, in my Formula 1 career, I've come to rely on my instincts regarding individuals.

"Reflecting on my departure from McLaren back in 2020, I had a sense that the team was on an upward trajectory and poised for future success, especially after collaborating closely with Zak Brown and Andrea Stella."

"When I departed from McLaren, I mentioned that although they might not clinch victories next year or the year after, this squad, with its current roster, is poised for success in the near future."

"Four years on, their performance has reached an exceptional peak. Back then, I had a certain intuition, and today, that same intuition resonates regarding the team and the ethos within Williams. It's crucial that I rely on that intuition, as it's what I've pledged my commitment to."

Sainz discusses decision to sign with Williams

Williams emerged victorious over Sauber/Audi and Alpine in the race to obtain his highly sought-after signature.

"He emphasized the significance of making the choice prior to the summer holiday."

"The past seven months have been incredibly challenging for me, grappling with the events that unfolded in January while also meeting the demands of being a Ferrari driver in an intense pressure situation."

Sainz spoke about evaluating his choices, stating, "You engage in discussions with numerous teams, scrutinizing and weighing all options while simultaneously participating in competitions.

I set a goal for myself to make the choice before taking a break, and once I made that choice, I aimed to be completely sure of it.

I made this choice due to my initial positive interactions and discussions with Williams. They are a team deeply dedicated to Formula 1, boasting a solid project, robust leadership, and a driven ambition to restore a legendary F1 team to its former glory.

"This is a source of inspiration for me; it spurred me on during my time at McLaren, as well as my stint with Ferrari when they were struggling in the rankings following a challenging 2020. And it's what drives me currently to undertake a project such as Williams."

Over the last three years, Sainz has secured a victory at a grand prix for Ferrari every year, with his most recent win being at the start of this season in Australia.

However, come 2025, it seems improbable that his latest vehicle will be competing for top spots.

He replied, "To speak frankly, out of my decade in Formula 1, I've only contended for victories in about two or three years. The remaining eight, not so much."

"I've devoted more hours to pursuits other than striving for victories than to the effort of securing them."

"For me, Formula 1 is primarily about getting the most out of the vehicle. The outcome isn't solely based on the skill of the athlete or driver; it heavily relies on the performance of the car you're operating."

"My motivation stems from figuring out how I can contribute to Williams and advance the project."

"I desire to be heard, to contribute meaningfully, especially in a storied team such as Williams. Their clear focus and dedication to returning the team to top form, backed by solid investment partners, mattered a lot to me. While victories or podium finishes in '25 may not be immediately achievable, I believe we can still make significant progress."

Sainz can now concentrate on his race performance during Formula 1 weekends without the worry of resolving his career prospects.

"Balancing the demands of racing for Ferrari at an elite level while also making critical decisions about your career path is challenging," he remarked.

"I must admit, it occupied a significant portion of my thoughts. I believe I've been transparent and truthful with you – I wasn't faltering, as evidenced by my outcomes which clearly indicated I wasn't facing hardships – yet it definitely consumed my mental energy, draining my cognitive resources.

"I recall feeling a sense of relief as I entered the break, having made my decision. It was time to disconnect, rejuvenate, and return fully concentrated on excelling in the upcoming 10 races exclusively for Ferrari."

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