Carlos Sainz gives blunt ‘no podium’ prediction for 2025

Carlos Sainz gave a reality check to fans about his prospects with Williams, after the conclusion of preseason testing in Bahrain.

Carlos Sainz gives blunt ‘no podium’ prediction for 2025

Carlos Sainz, image via F1

Carlos Sainz will race for Williams this season after being replaced at Ferrari by Lewis Hamilton. The Spanish driver is excited for his new journey with the Grove-based team. Though, he has now downplayed his chances for the year.

Williams Racing hopes to make inroads in the F1 midfield after making decent progress last year. Carlos Sainz had labeled the team’s 2025 car to be a night and day difference compared to its predecessor. He first drove the FW47 during a shakedown at the Silverstone circuit.

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After preseason testing in Bahrain, Sainz made it clear that fans should not get too excited for his debut stint at Williams. The 30-year-old asserted that he will not secure a podium in the upcoming season, or even make it to the top 5 in any race. As the battle in the midfield gets even tighter with teams like Alpine and Aston Martin making progress.

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I’m sure you’re not going to see me on the podium or in the top five this year, so don’t get too motivated.

Carlos Sainz said, as quoted by Marca

Carlos Sainz reminds fans of his goal at Williams

Despite the reality check, Carlos Sainz reminded fans that he did not move to the British team just to sit and let the years go by in the midfield. Rather, the Spanish driver was confident of playing a major role in Williams’ resurgence in Formula 1, and bringing the team back to the front of the grid.

Carlos Sainz insider FW47's cockpit (via RaceFans)
Carlos Sainz inside FW47’s cockpit (via RaceFans)

But at least make sure you know that I didn’t come to Williams to hang out, to let the years go by, to be in the middle of the grid. If I came to Williams, it’s to take this team forward and I’m confident that I can do it.

Carlos Sainz declared

Certainly, Sainz is ready to play the long game at the Grove squad. The 30-year-old understands that things can’t completely change overnight. Nevertheless, Carlos Sainz is determined to help rebuild the iconic British team and potentially ensure its success in the next few years. As such, fans can expect to see Williams make steady progress in 2025.