Carlos Sainz reveals the 2026 Mercedes engine played a key role in his move to Williams, gradually convincing himself it was the right choice.
Carlos Sainz openly admits that one of the main reasons he chose Williams F1 as his new home for his career is the Mercedes engine.
With a power unit that has secured numerous titles since 2014, Mercedes’ customer engine program has also proven to be a success, as McLaren won the Constructors’ Championship in 2024.
With the major regulation changes coming in 2026, Sainz hopes Mercedes will once again get off to a strong start in the new era of regulations next year.
“I would be lying if I said that one of the key reasons for my transfer, for going to Williams, wasn’t the Mercedes engine in 2026. It is one of the reasons.”
“So I hope that, in that sense, the Mercedes engine will be part of Williams’ success and rebuilding process.”
With Red Bull and Mercedes F1 declining to sign him, Sainz was forced to choose from midfield teams for 2025 after being dropped by Ferrari.
“I don’t remember the exact moment I decided to join Williams because it was quite a gradual process. I gradually convinced myself by asking more questions and gathering more information from all the teams.”
“It’s like anything else: I could be wrong, I could be right. Only time will tell.”
Sainz handled the situation well last year as Ferrari prepared to welcome Lewis Hamilton for 2025, but the Spaniard admits it was a “very difficult” period.
“It was six very difficult months. I had to perform on track while trying to decide my future with teams that were in the middle and back of the grid.”
“It surely affected me a bit during the season, and I had to juggle both things. But I gradually convinced myself that Williams was my best option and the one I wanted the most.”
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Sainz Backs Mercedes Power in 2026 Switch Sainz Backs Mercedes Power in 2026 Switch Sainz Backs Mercedes Power in 2026 Switch
