The Formula 1 paddock was abuzz after Carlos Sainz's surprising decision to join Williams from 2025, following the end of his tenure with Ferrari. The Spaniard's move to a struggling team has sparked questions, with McLaren's Lando Norris, a close friend of Sainz, taking the opportunity to make some teasing remarks about the move.
Norris questions Sainz's decision, calling it a 'waste of opportunity'
During an interaction with the media, Norris expressed his admiration for Sainz's talent but did not hesitate to question his move to Williams. Known for his cheerful personality, the Briton remarked that Sainz's skills deserved a more competitive seat and lamented the 30-year-old's loss of opportunity to remain with a top team.
“Carlos is someone I know well. He has proven enough in Formula 1 to deserve a good seat. It’s a shame when this opportunity is lost, but I’m sure its time will come again.”
Teasing note: “One less driver to face”
Never missing an opportunity to inject humour, Norris joked about Sainz's diminished chances of competing for wins and podiums at Williams, a team which currently sits in ninth place in the Constructors' standings.
“I'm glad he's not in a fast car anymore! [C’est] one less competitor [affronter].”
Norris' banter reflects the camaraderie and banter that has long defined his friendship with Sainz, dating back to their time as teammates at McLaren.
Leclerc's perspective: Sainz's legacy at Ferrari
Charles Leclerc, Sainz's Ferrari teammate, took a more serious tone in his comments. Reflecting on their partnership, Leclerc praised Sainz's contributions to the team and credited him with pushing Ferrari to greater heights.
“Carlos is incredibly talented. He has helped me improve in so many areas. If today we have taken such a step forward, it is largely thanks to Carlos.”
Leclerc's comments underline the respect Sainz has earned on the grid, even if he moves to a less competitive team.
Sainz faces tough task at Williams
Sainz's decision to join Williams was met with mixed reactions, given the team's recent struggles. Despite finishing ninth in the Manufacturers' standings in 2024, Williams has ambitious plans to improve, including significant investments in infrastructure and engineering talent.
Sainz's move is seen as a gamble, but one that could allow him to take a leadership role in the team's rebuild. His experience and technical acumen could prove invaluable in helping Williams regain its competitiveness, much like Fernando Alonso's impact at Aston Martin.
What are the next steps for Sainz?
While Sainz may no longer be competing for race wins or podiums in the short term, his move to Williams represents an opportunity to solidify his reputation as a team builder. Whether this gamble will pay off remains to be seen, but one thing is certain: Sainz's determination and talent will be tested as he begins this new chapter.
For now, Sainz can find comfort in the fact that his peers, even those like Norris who have a penchant for teasing, respect his abilities. Only time will tell whether his bold move leads to a resurgence for Williams or marks a detour in the Spanish driver's career.
