Audi and Williams were two teams heavily linked to Carlos Sainz for months, but after the Belgian GP, it was revealed that the Spaniard chose the latter. Sainz believes that he has made the right choice, which could be the case. Meanwhile, Guenther Steiner feels that things may get worse for Audi after Sainz’s rejection.
Audi announced they would enter F1 from 2026 onwards, by taking over Sauber. They already signed Nico Hulkenberg for next year, and had they secured Sainz, Audi would have been taken more “seriously”. On the Red Flags Podcast, Steiner said,
“If you bring in Carlos Sainz and Nico Hulkenberg, that attracts other big talents… Now its like Carlos decided to go to Williams. Nothing wrong with Williams, but not to Audi, that’s strange you know.”
Race winner, pole sitter, Williams driver
We’re excited to have the smooth operator join the team ️
— Williams Racing (@WilliamsRacing) July 29, 2024
Steiner had previously stated that the #55 driver should choose Audi‘s project over Williams. He pointed out that they were the biggest car manufacturers in the world, and that with huge investment, the German team could compete with the front runners.
Steiner is surprised Sainz chose Williams for several reasons. Per him, the Grove-based team could not have offered more money than Sauber/Audi. Plus, they were not too far ahead of the Hinwil stable in the Constructors’ Championship. Regardless, the Spaniard is keen on joining Williams.
Sainz is excited to lead Williams into the future
Williams is a team that has languished at the wrong end of the grid for several years. But, when James Vowles arrived as their team principal, he vowed to take them back to the front of the grid.
Technical overhauls aside, Vowles made it his mission to sign the best drivers. They already had a star in Alex Albon and now, Sainz’s arrival would only bolster their strength.
@WilliamsRacing pic.twitter.com/HCBmiMFhRf
— Carlos Sainz (@Carlossainz55) July 29, 2024
Sainz, after completing his move to Williams, revealed on social media that he was excited, and felt he made the right choice. He also stated that he believes in Vowles’ plans and wants to help the team regain its past glory.
The Madrid-born driver still has 10 more races for Ferrari this year, before he departs for the Grove-based outfit.
