The Formula 1 world was abuzz with speculation when rumors emerged of Carlos Sainz potentially joining Mercedes. As the 2025 driver market took shape, Sainz’s future became a hot topic, especially after it was revealed that Lewis Hamilton would be vacating his Ferrari seat.
Sky F1 correspondent Craig Slater has provided some clarity on the situation, explaining that Mercedes never presented a “concrete offer” to Sainz. Despite the whispers of a potential swap between Sainz and Hamilton, Slater made it clear that such discussions never reached a serious stage. “Mercedes, I had reported six weeks ago as being a no-go for him, due to the timeframes within which Mercedes and Sainz wanted to make their futures decisions by,” Slater shared on the Sky Sports F1 podcast.
This revelation highlights the complex nature of F1 negotiations, where timing and strategic decisions play crucial roles. Over the past months, there had been a flicker of possibility that discussions might rekindle. However, as Slater noted, these talks never gained momentum. “It seemed like possibly he was a contender again, or at least discussions of some kind could reopen in the last three to four weeks with Mercedes, but it hasn’t gone anywhere,” he stated.
As it stands, Sainz has now committed to Williams, signing a multi-year contract with an option to extend beyond 2026. While discussions with Sauber (soon to be Audi) and Alpine were also on the table, Sainz ultimately chose Williams. Slater speculated that Sainz’s decision was influenced by his belief in the Williams project, led by James Vowles, and the potential it holds for his career.
The decision appears to be strategic, as Sainz weighed the short-term impacts on his reputation. According to Slater, Sainz felt that some opportunities in F1 could harm a driver’s standing. “Ultimately, he’s had to decide between Williams, Audi, and a late bid from Alpine, which did turn his head a bit,” Slater noted, “but ultimately, he’s gone for Williams.”
Sainz, who has three grand prix wins to his name, including a recent victory at the 2024 Australian Grand Prix post-appendix surgery, seems ready to embrace this new chapter at Williams. His choice indicates a calculated risk, aiming to maximize his chances for success in the upcoming seasons.
In the world of F1, decisions are never straightforward. Sainz’s move to Williams opens a new chapter in his career, one that he hopes will yield significant results. Despite the allure of Mercedes, the timing and strategic alignment didn’t favor such a move. As Sainz settles into his new role, the F1 community will undoubtedly watch with keen interest to see how the Williams project unfolds with him at the helm.
