Sainz Chooses Williams Over Audi, Now He Must Prove Himself

Sainz Chooses Williams Over Audi, Despite Father's Disappointment

Carlos Sainz admits his father is still disappointed by his decision to reject Audi. Now, he hopes to justify his Williams move.

Carlos Sainz has admitted that his father is “still disappointed” that he turned down Audi’s offer for the 2025 Formula 1 season and beyond. Instead, the 30-year-old Ferrari driver chose Williams—a midfield team that surprised the F1 world with the fastest lap in pre-season testing in Bahrain.

“It was a surprise for us too,” Sainz said with a smile. “But more important than setting the fastest time is the energy within the team. Everyone is working even harder now. We’re heading to Australia with a bit of hope.”

However, his decision to join Williams went against the advice of his father, rally legend Carlos Sainz Sr., who recently found great success with Audi by winning the Dakar Rally.

Sainz Chooses Williams Over Audi, Despite Father’s Disappointment

“My father is still disappointed that I didn’t accept Audi’s incredible offer,” Sainz admitted. “After my dream of joining Red Bull or Mercedes ended, I had to choose between Audi, Alpine, and Williams. After visiting the factories and having discussions, my gut feeling told me to go with Williams.”

“They have a strong vision for the future. And once my heart agreed, the decision was made. Now, I hope my father—who has had amazing moments with Audi—will soon be happy with my choice.”

Meanwhile, Mattia Binotto, Sauber F1’s head of operations (and future Audi F1 team boss), acknowledges that Audi’s drivers, Nico Hülkenberg and rookie Gabriel Bortoleto, are unlikely to score points at this weekend’s Australian Grand Prix.

“If things go as expected, the two McLarens, Ferraris, Red Bulls, and Mercedes—along with Sainz and [Pierre] Gasly—will take the top ten spots,” Binotto predicted.

As for Sainz, former F1 boss Bernie Ecclestone believes he will make a big impact at Williams.
“Ferrari will regret letting him go. Carlos is already proving his worth at Williams. It was the same in my day—give a midfield team one of the top five drivers, and you’ll see a surprise.”