As soon as Carlos Sainz became available for the 2025 Formula 1 season, it was clear that James Vowles, the team principal of Williams Racing, was eager to bring him on board. The motivation wasn’t solely based on the fact that Sainz is a four-time race winner; rather, Vowles saw an opportunity to integrate a driver with invaluable strategic insights and technical prowess into the team.
A recent race in Saudi Arabia showcased Sainz’s capabilities. During the event, his teammate Alex Albon faced pressure from Isack Hadjar during a pivotal second stint. To help Albon, Sainz was instructed to ease off, ensuring that Albon remained within DRS range of him. This tactical move proved beneficial as Williams managed to secure six points, an essential step toward achieving a higher position in the constructors’ standings.
Sainz’s ability to execute the DRS strategy was not new to him—he had successfully employed a similar tactic a year and a half earlier. In a memorable instance during the 2023 Singapore Grand Prix, he assisted Lando Norris by providing a tow, helping them fend off George Russell in the closing laps of the race. While the stakes were lower in Saudi Arabia—focused on securing eighth and ninth places—this was equally crucial for Williams, emphasizing the importance of strategic driving.
Williams is currently focusing its limited resources on the 2025 car, and accumulating points early in the season is vital for their championship ranking. This is particularly important given the potential for other teams contending for fifth place to develop their cars throughout the year. Sainz seems to be acclimating well to the challenges posed by the Williams car, especially when compared to Lewis Hamilton, who took over his position at Ferrari. Hamilton has noted the distinct differences in operating a Ferrari power unit, particularly emphasizing the greater reliance on engine braking as a significant adjustment.
For Sainz, transitioning to a Mercedes power unit has also presented its challenges, as he navigates the unique braking dynamics. However, his performance in Bahrain indicated that he was gaining confidence. He managed to outqualify Albon, starting the race from eighth on the grid. Yet, he acknowledged that he had engaged in battles that may not have been necessary, which ultimately led to a collision with Tsunoda that damaged his car.
Taking lessons from Bahrain, Sainz adopted a more cautious approach in Jeddah. He improved his qualifying position to sixth on the grid but chose to avoid unnecessary skirmishes with drivers like Hamilton and Norris. Understanding the risks involved, he recognized that maintaining his position was more advantageous than potentially losing it by getting embroiled in battles that could jeopardize the race.
As the race unfolded, Sainz was aware that his DRS strategy could be pivotal in the final stages. However, he admitted to feeling hesitant about executing it. “The team asked me to give the DRS to Alex to make sure Hadjar didn’t have a chance of passing us,” Sainz explained. “It’s a tricky one because you always feel like it exposes you, especially on a high-speed track where DRS has a considerable impact. You get a bit nervous about it because one mistake could be costly.”
Ultimately, Sainz’s concern was alleviated as the strategy paid off, allowing him to demonstrate his pace in the closing lap. “It’s not the same when it comes from your idea, because you’re 100% sure – when it comes from the team, you struggle a bit more to commit to it because it doesn’t come naturally. But I think we made the right call in the end.”
In recent years, Williams has faced challenges in leveraging both its car and drivers to their full potential. There have been instances where both Albon and previous teammate Colapinto found themselves in the top 10, as well as memorable moments like the chaotic 2021 Hungarian Grand Prix, where George Russell suggested prioritizing Nicholas Latifi to secure a significant financial boost for the team.
With Sainz now nearly fully integrated into the Williams setup and the team fielding a competitive midfield car, the future looks promising. Vowles is implementing reforms that may take time to materialize, but the initial signs of progress are evident. Races like the one in Jeddah illustrate precisely why Williams pursued Sainz for so long. Having secured his talents and aided his transition, the team is positioned for more consistent results, provided the FW47 remains competitive throughout the 2025 season.
As the season progresses, the collaboration between Sainz and Williams will be closely monitored. If they can continue to build on their current momentum, it could signify a new chapter for the historic team. Sainz’s experience and strategic acumen may very well be the key ingredients that propel Williams back into the upper echelons of Formula 1, where they have traditionally belonged. The partnership is set to evolve, and fans and analysts alike will keep a keen eye on how Sainz’s contributions help shape the team’s journey in the coming races.
In conclusion, the combination of Carlos Sainz’s expertise and Williams’ strategic vision could lead to a fruitful partnership. With Sainz’s ability to adapt and execute crucial race strategies, coupled with Williams’ commitment to enhancing its performance, the team is on an upward trajectory. As they continue to refine their tactics and optimize their car, the potential for success is palpable, making the remainder of the 2025 season an exciting one to watch.
