Carlos Sainz stays on board: Williams contract extended by several years

It is a sign of confidence in the Williams project, the Grove-based team emphasised in confirming Carlos Sainz’s contract extension. The long-established racing team has thus put an end to all rumours surrounding a possible move by the 31-year-old to the Audi works team. The contract extension comes a day after his team-mate Alex Albon announced he had signed on for another year in Williams blue.

In Sainz’s case, there is talk of a multi-year deal. This means the four-time Grand Prix winner, who competed in his first season with the British team last year, is set to continue racing in Williams’ colours in the coming years. And, together with the team – which celebrates its 50th anniversary next year – he aims to return to the top.

Last year, Sainz and Albon together delivered Williams’ best season since 2016, with the former Ferrari driver securing some outstanding results. The highlight was the Spaniard’s first podium finish for Williams in Baku, where he finished third, followed by a sprint podium in Austin and another podium finish in Qatar.

Unwavering faith in the Williams project

Sainz said he was delighted to announce his contract extension. “I firmly believe in the people who make up this team – both at the factory and at the track – as well as in the investment and hard work being done behind the scenes. We have what it takes to turn things around together. I remain just as committed as I was on day one to bringing Williams back to where it belongs, and I look forward to creating more memories together with the team,” he emphasised.

Team principal James Vowles praised him: “Since joining us, Carlos’s talent behind the wheel and his commitment to this project at the factory have been invaluable – day in, day out, he works with his engineers to squeeze out every millisecond. He is a leading figure in this team, and I’m delighted that he recognises what is possible as we continue the rebuild.”

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“It’s not just his driving ability and speed that stand out, but also the work he does behind the scenes to achieve peak performance. Carlos shares our conviction and ambition, and gives his all every day to put our plan into action. I am certain that, together with Alex, he forms one of the strongest driver line-ups on the grid,” added the Briton.