Carlos Sainz’s real reason for ditching Audi for Williams

Carlos Sainz reportedly is more eager to sign with Williams despite Audi's lucrative offer for a 2025 drive.

Carlos Sainz’s real reason for ditching Audi for Williams

James Vowles and Carlos Sainz and Audi (via IMAGO)

Carlos Sainz was left without a seat after Ferrari signed Lewis Hamilton for 2025. The Spanish driver had hoped to continue with the Scuderia and as such was forced to look for options. Audi seemed to be the best prospect for Sainz. However, it seems that the 29-year-old has become more inclined to joins Williams Racing.

Audi will take over the Sauber F1 team by 2026. The German carmaker has already invested heavily into its F1 project and lured Nico Hulkenberg from Haas. Carlos Sainz was its number 1 priority. However, the 29-year-old seems to be unconvinced so far.

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On the other hand, Williams seems to be Sainz’s preferred destination after Red Bull and Mercedes closed doors for the Spaniard. The Spanish driver has reportedly received a four-year offer with the provision to leave the team after two seasons if it doesn’t meet Carlos Sainz’s goals. It seems that there is one main reason behind the 29-year-old’s desire to join the Grove-based team.

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James Vowles reportedly assured Carlos Sainz over Williams’ future progress

James Vowles was appointed as Williams Team Principal last year. The former Mercedes Motorsport Strategy Director has transformed the Grove-based team. Vowles has high ambitions to bring Williams back to the front of the grid after two decades of decline. The Briton has been vocal over the disappointing state of the team.

Carlos Sainz
Carlos Sainz(via IMAGO)

Carlos Sainz seems to be convinced by James Vowles’ plans for Williams. Further, the Mercedes power unit is always a safe bet for a regulation shake-up. This was also a reason for Alex Albon resigning with the team. Vowles is a credible leader who wants Williams to succeed. As such, the Briton will leave no stone unturned in having a good driver lineup.

Moreover, the rumored four-year offer allows Sainz to leave Williams after two seasons if Vowles’ promises do not materialize. This would even give Carlos Sainz ample opportunity to join a top team in 2027. On the other hand, if James Vowles succeeds, the Spanish driver would have a secure future at the Grove-based team.

Certainly, Williams remains a risky bet for Carlos Sainz. However, it seems that the Spanish driver has more faith in James Vowles’ leadership than Audi’s proposals at the moment. As such, fans would be hoping that the Grove-based team does follow through with its future plans and give Sainz a capable car in the coming years.

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