Carlos Sainz finally answered the questions about his future by agreeing to join Williams. The 29-year-old is easily the highest-profile driver to join the British outfit since Felipe Massa, who also arrived from Ferrari. Sainz brings a wealth of speed and experience to the team. In addition, his presence significantly raises the expectations of the British outfit.
Expectations rise for the Williams project
Despite currently sitting 9th in the standings, Williams are a team with great ambition. James Vowles is adamant that critical pieces are falling into place for long-term success at Grove.
Investment in infrastructure and fundamental changes in the Grove factory’s procedural approach are all underway.
The arrival of Carlos Sainz completes a very strong driver line-up at Williams, with a multiple race-winner joining the ever-consistent Alex Albon.
Having such a strong combination, inevitably, means that continuing at the back of the field is no longer acceptable.
Williams welcome the pressure Carlos Sainz brings
Speaking after Sainz’s arrival was confirmed, Head of Performance David Robson outlined what he expects:
“He’s going to be demanding, I’m sure, which we need. A lot of the learning process next year will be about understanding Carlos himself.
“Reworking the dynamic of the team trackside and at the factory, to understand how to deal with two drivers who are competing with each other.
“It’s fantastic news, but it’s definitely going to shake us up a bit – in a good way.”
James Vowles ready to make the necessary changes
Luckily for Williams, the 2026 regulation changes will somewhat mitigate the expectations surrounding them in 2025.
Although next year could be an exceptionally close battle for the top teams, it will be largely transitional for James Vowles’ personnel.
Making the necessary changes behind the scenes and positioning Williams for long-term success is the priority.
Vowles has already discussed the potential for future growth:
“It’s why when people ask me – ‘Are you happy or unhappy with 2024?’ – I don’t care.
“I hate to say it, but it doesn’t mean anything for me.
“I love scoring points in Monaco, but I’m really excited by what we have coming up in 2025, 2026 and 2027.
“As that’s where we’re investing our time and resources.”
From the outside, results at Williams still leave little to be desired.
However, there is no shortage of optimism for the vision James Vowles has for the project.
In the coming years, the former Mercedes engine will be held to account for the team’s progress.
