Carlos Sainz Jr: Williams’ new driver is already making a difference
Having made his mark on the history of Ferrari and McLaren, Carlos Sainz is now putting his know-how to work for Williams. The impact is immediate and promising, as confirmed by James Vowles, who has nothing but praise for his new recruit.
Carlos Sainz landed at Williams this season, alongside Alex Albon, and his arrival is already making waves. After a successful career with Toro Rosso, Renault, McLaren, and Ferrari, the Spaniard is ready to write a new chapter in his Formula 1 career, in a team seeking renewal. And from his first laps during the Abu Dhabi tests, the Sainz effect was immediate. James Vowles, the team director, did not hesitate to highlight the impact of his new driver. « He is savoring this experience », he told Autosport. And it’s not just for show. « This is where he wants to be; this is what he wants to do, he’s part of our success story ». Enough to boost the morale of his new team for the upcoming season.
A Sainz Fully Focused on the Details
At Williams, Carlos Sainz wastes no time and gets straight to work. Vowles is impressed by his ability to integrate quickly and be proactive. “I was with him this morning, with Alex and myself, for three or four hours discussing the plans for the year, what we have changed, where we are heading,” explains the Williams boss. It’s safe to say he doesn’t spend his time watching others work! Sainz’s work at the Grove factory is an asset to the team. His contributions are absolutely essential to moving the team forward. One thing is certain, he is not there to make up the numbers.
James Vowles affirms: “He leaves nothing to chance.” It’s evident in his past performances. Everywhere he has gone, teams have improved. McLaren, Ferrari… He has always managed to add his touch, and the result speaks for itself. “There is a statistic on the F1 channel today where you look at all the teams he has been to and where they have finished. It’s not a coincidence,” adds Vowles. He is not just a fast driver; he’s a hard worker who knows how to make a team progress. So when Vowles says that Sainz is “a hard worker, a diligent worker who brings success with him,” it’s not for nothing.
A new breath for the Williams team
The impact of Sainz at Williams might just be the X factor the team was missing. James Vowles understands this well and speaks about it with enthusiasm: « Already, in just a few weeks, a truly positive dynamic is emerging from the ideas, the concepts, the ways we can change, the ways we can move forward ». Williams really needs this new momentum. After years of struggling to return to the top, the team seems to have finally found the right formula with Sainz by its side. « He is a brilliant personality who, with him, brings not only a pedigree of race victories but also the will and desire to see Williams succeed », added Vowles. For now, this collaboration looks promising, and time will tell if it truly propels the team into the race for points.
