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 depart Ferrari at the end of 2024, is poised to partner Alex Albon at Williams, in a move hailed as a potential game-changer for the team.
In a high-profile summer signing, Sainz opted for Williams over other suitors, committing to a multi-year deal with the British outfit. 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 line-up on the grid.”
Sainz will replace Colapinto, the young Argentine driver who was promoted to Williams mid-season in 2024 after the team parted ways with Logan Sargeant. Despite his brief stint, Colapinto has impressed, securing points in just his second race at Baku and helping Williams rise to eighth in the Constructors’ Championship.
Reflecting on his F1 debut and the challenges he overcame to reach the pinnacle of motorsport, Colapinto shared his personal journey with DAZN, saying: “It was a moment I’ve worked towards for many years. I made sacrifices, moved to Europe at 14, and there were tough times when I considered returning to Argentina. But in the end, overcoming those moments made it all worth it.”
Although Sainz’s arrival will mean Colapinto won’t 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’s worked hard to get where he is and represents his country well,” Colapinto said. “He and Alex will make a formidable team, and I’m sure they’ll push Williams up the grid.”
Colapinto also expressed gratitude to Williams’ leadership for giving him the chance to showcase his talent. “The opportunity James Vowles gave me was incredible. He took a gamble by changing drivers mid-season, and I just want to prove he made the right choice.”
As Williams looks to rebuild its legacy in Formula 1, 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 drive, Williams fans have every reason to be optimistic about what lies ahead.
The 2025 season may well be the turning point for the once-dominant team as they aim to move up the pecking order and reclaim their place among F1’s elite.
