Williams became one of many teams to change their 2025 line-up after agreeing to a multi-year deal with Carlos Sainz. The Spaniard’s arrival is further proof of the ambition at Williams to become front-runners. According to team principal James Vowles, the Albon-Sainz combination is the strongest in Formula 1.
Sainz and Albon are the best duo in F1, argues James Vowles
The acquisition of Carlos Sainz is a huge milestone for Williams. It represents their most high-profile signing since Felipa Massa in 2014, serving as evidence of the growing confidence in the Grove-based team.
James Vowles has not been afraid to bold statements about his team’s ambitions – even at the expense of rising expectations.
Williams will face a new level of scrutiny in 2026, with the new regulations representing a key measuring stick for their progress.
Williams see Sainz as a key piece of the puzzle
As the team looks to progress, Williams can count on a very strong driver line-up.
However, Vowles is especially enthusiastic about his drivers – making the case that Sainz completes the best line-up in F1:
“That’s my opinion of it. I’ll explain some of the reasons behind it.,” he said on Beyond The Grid Podcast.
“A – they’re both performing at a very high level. I mean, Carlos has driven against all the drivers you just discussed.
“He drove against Lando, was successful against Charles – up and down – but he’s there or there abouts. There’s hardly anything between those two drivers.
“Against Max, in that first year at Toro Rosso, was exceptional against him… But it’s not just that I’m basing it on. It’s not in the car, it’s [also] out of the car.
“In the short space of time I’ve gotten to know him properly, he drives the team forward. He wants to spend every minute of his time to make this team more and more successful… Alex is built the same way.”
Of course, the consensus in the paddock will not align with Vowles’ perspective. The majority of observers would argue that Ferrari – with Leclerc and Hamilton – boast the strongest line-up for 2025.
Still, it is understandable for a team principal to sing the praises of their drivers.
If Williams can become more competitive, the abilities of their duo (much like is happening at McLaren) will become far clearer.
