Sainz Williams signing a 'strong statement of intent' – Vowles

Williams team principal James Vowles has hailed his signing of Carlos Sainz as a "strong statement of intent" for the team.

Sainz has long been linked with a move to Williams for next year but also attracted interest from Alpine and the Audi F1 project.

Sainz insisted on several occasions that he wanted time to consider all his options and has now opted for a switch to Grove for next year to replace Logan Sargeant. 

Ever since Williams' interest in the 29-year-old was understood, Vowles stressed that the outgoing Ferrari driver was its number one target.

"Carlos joining Williams is a strong statement of intent from both parties," said Vowles. 

"Carlos has demonstrated time and again that he is one of the most talented drivers on the grid, with race-winning pedigree, and this underlines the upwards trajectory we are on. 

"Carlos brings not just experience and performance, but also a fierce drive to extract every millisecond out of the team and car; the fit is perfect."

Vowles backs driver 'belief' in F1 project

Sainz will enter the new power unit regulations with Williams alongside Alex Albon, who is also at the British team on a multi-year deal. 

It marks a very experienced driver pairing with Sainz replacing Logan Sargeant, who is competing in his second F1 campaign.

Vowles believes the team's driver pairing from next season is a demonstration of how much both Albon and Sainz believe in Williams' project to return to the front.

“In Alex and Carlos we will have one of the most formidable driver line-ups on the grid and with huge experience to guide us into the new regulations in 2026," added Vowles. 

"Their belief in this organisation’s mission demonstrates the magnitude of the work going on behind the scenes. 

"People should be in no doubt about our ambition and momentum as we continue our journey back to competitiveness – we are here, we are serious and with Dorilton’s backing we are investing in what it takes to return to the front of the grid.

“I also want to thank Logan for everything he has done for the team and know he will continue to fight hard for us in the races ahead.”