Sainz keen to 'make history again' as Williams driver

Carlos Sainz has detailed his eagerness to be a part of Williams' long-term future after penning a deal with the Grove-based squad.

Sainz's Ferrari exit was confirmed earlier this year after the Italian outfit opted to sign seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton from Mercedes.

Sainz has been mulling over his future over the last handful of months and was linked to several F1 projects before settling on Williams.

A multi-year deal has been signed between the two parties, meaning Sainz will be part of the squad as the sport enters a new era in 2026 under fresh technical regulations.

“I am very happy to announce that I will be joining Williams Racing from 2025 onwards,” Sainz said. 

“It is no secret that this year’s driver market has been exceptionally complex for various reasons and that it has taken me some time to announce my decision. 

“However, I am fully confident that Williams is the right place for me to continue my F1 journey and I am extremely proud of joining such a historic and successful team, where many of my childhood heroes drove in the past and made their mark on our sport. 

“The ultimate goal of bringing Williams back to where it belongs, at the front of the grid, is a challenge that I embrace with excitement and positivity.”

Sainz 'convinced' over Williams project

Williams has enjoyed high levels of success in the past, winning multiple races and world championships during its history in F1.

It has slipped back in the pecking order in recent years, with James Vowles hired last season to oversee its growth back to the front of the field.

As he prepares to join his new team, Sainz highlighted his confidence in Williams returning to a competitive position in the future.

“I am convinced that this team has all the right ingredients to make history again and starting on January 1 I will give my absolute best to drive Williams forward alongside every single member of the team,” he said.

“I want to thank James Vowles and the entire Board of Williams for their trust and determination. 

“Their solid leadership and convictions have played an important role in my decision-making. I truly believe that the core of every successful team lies amongst their people and their culture. 

“Williams is synonymous with heritage and pure racing, the foundations of the project that lies ahead of us are very strong and I am really looking forward to being part of it starting next year.”