Williams’ Bold Move: Revealing Sensitive Car Data to Secure Carlos Sainz

Williams reveals the appeal of confidential automotive information to Carlos Sainz

James Vowles discloses strategies used to persuade Carlos Sainz

Williams detailed their strategy for persuading Carlos Sainz to come on board, which involved disclosing confidential details about their vehicle.

The choice by departing Ferrari racer and grand prix victor Sainz to commit to an extended contract with Williams represents a significant triumph for the UK squad.

Talks that started in Abu Dhabi the previous year developed into starkly candid conversations regarding Williams' advancement and the 'sacrifices' that Sainz would have to agree to.

Team leader James Vowles mentioned on the F1 Nation podcast, "I provided him with precise weight measurements, indicating where the car is exceeding its ideal weight. This allows him to return and figure out the car's potential position."

"For the global audience, this implied that we would have been accumulating points at each competition, especially during the early part of the season.

"It's tough for me to handle, yet it also indicates an enhancement in the car's performance."

"Weight is being shed, and we are actively doing so. Adding genuine, measurable aerodynamic efficiency is challenging."

"Weight simply plays a role, I've repeated this process a hundred times throughout my career. Increasing by three kilograms roughly affects the time by three tenths. Similarly, decreasing by three kilograms impacts the time by about the same margin. He's aware of this; it's apparent to him."

He compiled a 'current performance status' overview, providing him with a clearer understanding of the performance level. This was uplifting.

"I demonstrated to him the areas we are focusing on for future investments in a streamlined manner, as I was unable to provide a detailed explanation."

"He was aware of all the individuals we are in the process of recruiting. There are others whose signings we have yet to reveal."

I explained the reasons behind our modifications, the necessity for the gradual transition, and why aiming for 2024, as well as 2025, represents a concession. This was a challenging stance for him to accept given his competitive nature and reluctance to fall behind.

"Here's what makes 2026 an exhilarating prospect…"

In 2025, Sainz is set to take over from Logan Sargeant, joining forces with Alex Albon to create a dynamic pairing.

'No politics involved; we boast an exceptional team roster'

Vowles detailed the process of notifying his team of over 1,000 employees about the significant achievement of securing Sainz, surpassing both Sauber and Alpine in the process.

"Vowles mentioned, "We installed a projector screen alongside a TV. Upon entering, I was accompanied by Netflix representatives. The room was filled with about 600 to 700 attendees.

"I mentioned, 'you should really keep your eyes on the monitor.' I've had the joy of coming out on top in various races and securing titles.

"I assure you, the response to this event was the most intense and emotional I have ever witnessed in my Formula 1 career. It was remarkable."

The yelling, hollering…

Carlos recorded a 90-second segment on camera, but they failed to capture the initial 60 seconds! During this time, there was continuous screaming.

This, in itself, revealed to me its significance for those involved. I proceeded to roam and inquire from others about its meaning.

"This declaration signifies our purpose, unequivocally expressing our objective. Our investment is appropriately scaled. In terms of driver pairings, we boast what could be considered the premiere duo on the grid."

"Politics don't play a part. They both merely function as entities of performance."

Vowles also mentioned, "What truly mattered more to the team was the second aspect."

From the beginning, it was clear that Carlos had speed. However, he's like a high-performance engine, requiring a multitude of specifics to be precisely tuned for him to excel and contribute to the team's success. He's driven by a desire to elevate the team's performance.

"It's not by chance that every squad he's joined has seen progress following his period there. This became clear to me after several discussions with him over the months."

The factory's final decision was: we also need to elevate our performance.

"Simply not having a ground level isn't sufficient. Our requirement is for three levels to be completed to the appropriate quality. We require all components beforehand. The output needs to equal the caliber of our driving team."

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