Carlos Sainz wasted no time transitioning to his new team, Williams Racing, as he took to the Yas Marina Circuit just a day after finishing second for Ferrari in the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix. In a low-key but pivotal debut, Sainz completed laps in the FW46 during a filming day, marking the first official glimpse of the Spaniard with his new team ahead of the 2025 Formula 1 season.
First Impressions: Sainz in the FW46
Decked in a plain white helmet but proudly sporting his signature race number 55, Sainz ran demonstration laps on Pirelli tires in the late afternoon. This preliminary outing, part of a reserved filming day, allowed Sainz to get a feel for the car while the team fine-tuned the seat fit, pedal configuration, and other crucial ergonomic details.
The session also gave the 29-year-old a chance to execute a practice start and familiarize himself with Williams’ procedures. While the laps were limited in scope, they set the stage for a more rigorous Pirelli tire test scheduled for Tuesday.
Williams Welcomes a Proven Talent
Sainz’s move to Williams, confirmed earlier this year, represents a major shift in his career trajectory. The Spaniard joins a team that is rebuilding its competitive edge, and his experience and race-winning pedigree are expected to play a pivotal role in accelerating that process.
Williams has also bolstered its support for Sainz with the announcement of a new partnership with Spanish banking giant Santander, a long-time sponsor that followed him from Ferrari. The deal signals confidence in Sainz’s ability to lead Williams into a promising future.
A Star-Studded Line-Up of 2025 Preparations
Tuesday’s Pirelli tire test will see several big-name drivers stepping into new roles for 2025. Sainz will share the circuit with Kimi Antonelli, Mercedes’ rising star, Esteban Ocon at Haas, Jack Doohan at Alpine, and veterans Nico Hulkenberg and Gabriel Bortoleto at Stake. The gathering underscores the significance of these post-season tests in laying the groundwork for next year.
Eyes on the Future
Sainz’s transition from Ferrari to Williams marks a bold new chapter for both the driver and the team. After a mixed tenure at Ferrari that included memorable victories and near misses, Sainz now carries the hopes of a team determined to reclaim its glory days. His adaptability, experience, and tactical prowess will be critical assets as Williams looks to climb back up the grid.
As the dust settles on the 2024 season, all eyes are now on Sainz and Williams to see if this partnership can deliver a fresh spark to one of Formula 1’s most storied teams. With a successful first outing under his belt, the Spaniard is already off to a promising start.