Carlos Sainz made an electrifying debut with Williams, topping the timesheets at midday during the final Formula 1 testing session of 2024 at Abu Dhabi’s Yas Marina Circuit. The Spaniard, recently released from Ferrari to get a head-start on his new chapter with Williams, wasted no time in making an impression as teams tested the 2025-spec Pirelli tyres.
Sainz Shines on Day One at Williams
Following a brief promotional run on Monday, Sainz took the FW46 to new heights, posting a best time of 1m24.345s, outpacing former Ferrari teammate Charles Leclerc and McLaren’s Lando Norris. His performance solidified Williams’ positive trajectory as the Grove-based team sets its sights on a competitive 2025 season.
“It’s been great to get acquainted with the Williams setup,” Sainz said after the morning session. “The car feels promising, and we’re already making progress on understanding the 2025 tyres.”
Midday Standings: Key Highlights
- Charles Leclerc (Ferrari): The Monegasque was Sainz’s closest challenger, logging a time of 1m24.561s, just over two-tenths shy.
- Lando Norris (McLaren): Fresh off his Abu Dhabi Grand Prix victory, Norris maintained his form with a 1m24.678s, securing third place.
- Jack Doohan (Alpine): The Australian driver impressed with 1m24.804s, showing consistency for Alpine.
New Faces, New Teams
Several drivers had their first outings with their 2025 teams:
- Nico Hulkenberg (Sauber): The ex-Haas driver returned to the Sauber garage but struggled to find pace, sitting 15th after three hours.
- Yuki Tsunoda (Red Bull): On his first run in a full-spec Red Bull, Tsunoda placed 10th, ahead of fellow Red Bull-backed Isack Hadjar in 11th.
- Paul Aron (Alpine): The newly confirmed Alpine reserve driver clocked a solid ninth fastest time.
Mercedes’ Rotating Roster
Mercedes was forced to shuffle drivers after Kimi Antonelli missed the morning session due to lingering illness. Frederik Vesti stepped in, securing 17th, with Antonelli expected to run in the afternoon.
Haas Prioritizes Long Runs
Haas continued its focus on heavy-fuel runs, with Esteban Ocon and Ryo Hirakawa posting the slowest times of the morning. The team’s conservative strategy is aimed at gathering data rather than chasing lap times.
Midday Timesheet
- Carlos Sainz (Williams), 1m24.345s
- Charles Leclerc (Ferrari), 1m24.561s
- Lando Norris (McLaren), 1m24.678s
- Jack Doohan (Alpine), 1m24.804s
- Pato O’Ward (McLaren), 1m25.201s
- Antonio Fuoco (Ferrari), 1m25.238s
- Gabriel Bortoleto (Ferrari), 1m25.306s
- Luke Browning (Williams), 1m25.409s
- Paul Aron (Alpine), 1m25.561s
- Yuki Tsunoda (Red Bull), 1m25.568s
What’s Next?
The final testing session will continue into the afternoon as teams look to finalize their evaluations for the 2025 season. All eyes will remain on Sainz, who seems determined to prove Williams made the right choice in securing his services.
With the promise of a reshaped grid and fresh rivalries, the 2025 Formula 1 season is already shaping up to be one for the books.
