F1 DRAMA: SAINZ SHOCKS AUDI WITH WILLIAMS MOVE FOR 2025!
Haas F1 driver Nico Hulkenberg has revealed he isn’t the least bit shocked by Carlos Sainz’s decision to sign with Williams instead of Audi for the 2025 Formula 1 season, despite the tantalizing offer from the German brand. In a move that sent ripples through the paddock, Sainz, who is set to depart Ferrari, chose to continue his F1 career with Williams, rejecting Audi’s debut project in 2026.
Sainz, who has built a reputation as a versatile and intelligent driver, saw more potential in Williams, a team that has shown promise despite its historical struggles in recent years. Sainz’s decision to snub Audi, where his father, rally legend Carlos Sainz Sr., has strong ties, left many wondering why he didn’t follow the family legacy.
HULKENBERG: ‘SAINZ TOOK TOO LONG, THE WRITING WAS ON THE WALL’
Speaking ahead of the U.S. Grand Prix, Hulkenberg made it clear that Sainz’s choice didn’t catch him off guard. “I wasn’t surprised. He was hesitating for a long time, and when you take that much time, it’s clear you’re not fully convinced,” Hulkenberg said, referring to Sainz’s drawn-out decision process. “It’s not something I’ve given much thought to, but now that he’s chosen Williams, it is what it is, and we’ll see how things play out.”
Hulkenberg, who has signed with Sauber (soon to become Audi) for 2025, had been linked with a possible reunion with Sainz after their days as teammates at Renault. However, Sainz’s reluctance to join Audi seemed to signal an end to that potential partnership.
WHY WILLIAMS OVER AUDI?
Sainz’s decision to join Williams rather than be part of Audi’s ambitious Formula 1 entry has left fans and experts speculating about his motives. Despite Audi’s high-profile debut looming in 2026, Sainz was reportedly not fully convinced of the team’s readiness. Audi’s Sauber operation is currently languishing at the bottom of the Constructors’ standings, a factor that likely weighed heavily on Sainz’s mind.
Williams, while not a top-tier team, has shown signs of resurgence. Sainz believes that his experience and skillset can help elevate the iconic British team, offering him a more immediate opportunity to make an impact on the grid. This strategic gamble could pay off big for both Sainz and Williams, who have struggled to return to their former glory.
AUDI’S DRIVER LINEUP FOR 2026: WHO WILL PARTNER HULKENBERG?
With Sainz out of the picture, the search for Audi’s 2026 driver lineup intensifies. Hulkenberg has already secured his seat, but who will join him? Speculation has run wild, with names like and being floated as potential candidates. However, Audi’s Chief Operating Officer has already ruled out some contenders, leaving the team with tough decisions ahead as they look to hit the ground running in their F1 debut.
SAINZ’S FERRARI FAREWELL: AN EMOTIONAL EXIT
As Carlos Sainz prepares to bid farewell to Ferrari, he does so with six races left in the 2024 season. His time at the Scuderia has been marked by steady performances and valuable contributions, earning him a loyal fanbase. While Ferrari enthusiasts are sad to see him go, they understand his desire to seek a fresh challenge with a team on the rise. Former Williams driver praised Sainz’s intelligence and foresight in making the move to Williams, highlighting the Spaniard’s ability to work seamlessly with teams and adapt to new environments.
“Carlos is fast, experienced, and smart. He knows how to get the best out of a team, and I think Williams will benefit greatly from that,” the former driver commented.
Sainz’s strategic switch to Williams sets the stage for an exciting 2025 season, as the Spaniard embarks on a new chapter in his career with a team that is hungry for success. Meanwhile, all eyes will be on Audi as they prepare to enter the Formula 1 fray in 2026, still on the hunt for the perfect driver pairing to launch their project.
