Williams is set for a seismic shift in Formula 1, as Franco Colapinto believes incoming driver Carlos Sainz will elevate the team’s performance when he joins in 2025. Sainz, who will leave Ferrari at the end of 2024, is set to partner Alex Albon at Williams, in a move hailed as a potential game-changer for the team.
In a high-profile summer transfer, Sainz chose Williams over other suitors, committing to a multi-year contract with the British team. His arrival is expected to bring a new level of competition to the grid, with Williams team principal James Vowles confidently predicting that the Albon-Sainz duo will form the “best team on the grid.” »
Sainz will replace Colapinto, the young Argentine driver who was promoted to Williams mid-season in 2024 after the team terminated his contract with Logan Sargeant. Despite his brief stint, Colapinto impressed, picking up points in his second race in Baku and helping Williams climb to eighth place in the Constructors’ Championship.
Reflecting on his early days in F1 and the challenges he overcame to reach the pinnacle of motorsport, Colapinto shared his personal journey with DAZN, saying: “It was a moment I worked for many years for . I made sacrifices, moved to Europe at 14, and there were difficult times when I considered returning to Argentina. But in the end, overcoming those moments was worth it.”
Although Sainz’s arrival means Colapinto will not retain his seat, the Argentine has nothing but admiration for the Spaniard. “Carlos is a great driver, and I admire him and his family a lot. He has worked hard to get where he is and represents his country well,” said Colapinto. “He and Alex will make a formidable team, and I am sure they will push Williams to the top of the rankings.”
Colapinto also expressed his gratitude to Williams’ management for giving him the chance to showcase his talent. “The opportunity that James Vowles gave me was incredible. He took a risk by changing drivers mid-season, and I just want to prove he made the right choice.”
As Williams looks to rebuild its Formula 1 legacy, the addition of a proven race winner like Sainz, combined with Albon’s consistency, could signal a new era of competitiveness for the team. With Sainz’s experience and determination, Williams fans have every reason to be optimistic about the future.
The 2025 season could well be the turning point for the once-dominant team as they aim to climb back up the hierarchy and regain their place among F1’s elite.
