Williams Boss Surprised Red Bull and Mercedes Didn’t Sign Sainz

Williams team principal James Vowles expressed surprise that top Formula 1 teams Red Bull and Mercedes didn’t pursue Carlos Sainz before he signed with Williams. Announced after the Belgian Grand Prix, Sainz’s deal covers the 2025 and 2026 seasons with options to extend.

“I rate him as one of the top four drivers. Why wouldn’t you want that in your stable?” Vowles said, emphasizing Sainz’s transformative impact on teams and his performance potential.

Strategic Moves and Future Prospects

Vowles believes Sainz would be a better fit alongside Max Verstappen at Red Bull than Sergio Perez, given Perez’s struggles. Mercedes appears to be focusing on youth, with Andrea Kimi Antonelli potentially replacing Lewis Hamilton in 2025. Vowles described the signing process as a rollercoaster, involving candid discussions about Williams’ future.

A Significant Achievement for Williams

Currently ninth in the constructors’ standings, Williams beat out Sauber and Alpine to secure Sainz. Vowles considers this a proud career moment, highlighting Sainz’s commitment to Williams despite speculative media reports of exit clauses.