- Carlos Sainz is deciding between Williams and Audi for the 2025 Formula 1 season.
- Audi offers the potential of building a team around Sainz.
- Williams shows promise under new leadership despite current struggles.
- Audi’s entry into F1 in 2026 is a major factor in Sainz’s decision.
- Both teams present unique opportunities and challenges for Sainz’s career.
Carlos Sainz is keeping his options open as he decides between Williams and Audi for the 2025 F1 season. After his exit from Ferrari, the Spaniard is carefully considering his next move, and it seems his choice has boiled down to two teams: Williams and Audi. Each team offers distinct advantages and challenges.
Oleg Karpov argues that Audi is the better choice for Sainz. He suggests that Audi, with its major manufacturer backing and ambitious project, offers Sainz the chance to have a team built around him. Karpov highlights that while both Williams and Audi are currently among the slower teams, Audi’s long-term potential might make it the safer bet. Audi’s commitment to F1, along with its financial power and strategic planning, could provide Sainz with the platform he has been seeking. Moreover, despite Sauber’s current struggles, their ongoing transition to becoming Audi’s team shows promise for future improvements.
Ewan Gale, on the other hand, sees Williams as a more appealing option. He points out the significant changes and improvements under James Vowles’ leadership at Williams. Despite initial setbacks like using outdated excel spreadsheets, Vowles is modernizing the team, showing promising results in recent seasons. Williams is making steady progress, with Alex Albon’s impressive performances and new hirings indicating a positive trend. Gale argues that Williams, already equipped with a reliable Mercedes power unit, might offer a more stable and upwardly mobile environment for Sainz in the short-term.
Another point to consider is the new regulations coming into effect in 2026. While Audi will bring its own power unit, it comes with the risk of initial teething problems similar to those Honda faced. Conversely, Williams will likely have a competitive edge with the established Mercedes power unit, which could be strong under the new rules. This factor could be crucial for Sainz, who is looking to maximize his chances of fighting for titles.
Ultimately, Sainz has to weigh the potential of Audi’s ambitious long-term project against Williams’ current upward trajectory and stability. Each choice offers a unique path to success, but also comes with its own set of risks and rewards.
Sainz’s decision will shape the next chapter of his F1 career, balancing immediate gains with long-term potential.
Source: Motorsport
