Carlos Sainz officially kick-started his 2025 Formula 1 journey with Williams, putting the brand-new FW47 through its paces at Silverstone. Just months after being unexpectedly ousted from Ferrari, Sainz took the wheel of his new challenger for a shakedown run, offering early insights into the machine that will define his next chapter in F1.
A Solid First Run for the FW47
After completing his first laps in the Grove-based team’s 2025 chassis, the 30-year-old Spaniard delivered a positive verdict. While acknowledging the inherent challenges of an initial rollout, Sainz assured that the car performed as expected.
“Everything went fine, which is good news. An install lap for a newly-born car is always a bit tricky, but everything worked as it should. Now we’re ready to get into the run plan.”
This marks the second time Sainz has driven a Williams F1 car, following his post-season test in Abu Dhabi last year. But this time, the moment carried greater significance—this was his car for the season ahead, and the start of a bold new chapter for the former Ferrari race winner.
Sainz Set to Elevate Williams with Experience & Expertise
With pre-season testing just around the corner, Sainz wasted no time getting deep into feedback mode. The Spaniard pinpointed areas for improvement, particularly in cockpit feel and fine-tuning the car’s behavior before pushing to its limits.
“I need to give feedback – the two or three things that I felt could be improved, or the feeling inside the cockpit that I want to talk to them about. Then we’ll get the car ready to run on slicks and probably start pushing it little by little.”
His technical insight and experience with Ferrari could prove to be a game-changer for Williams as they aim for a stronger campaign. The team endured a challenging 2024 season, finishing ninth in the Constructors’ Championship, but with Sainz joining forces with Alex Albon, expectations are rising.
A Gamble on Williams—Will It Pay Off?
Sainz’s decision to sign with Williams over other F1 options raised eyebrows, but the Spaniard is clearly committed to the long-term project. With major regulation changes looming in 2026, Williams is investing heavily in its future—and Sainz is banking on that progress.
The first true test of the FW47’s potential will come at the Australian Grand Prix, where Sainz will make his race debut for Williams. Until then, all eyes are on pre-season testing, where the team will look to maximize performance gains before lights out in Melbourne.
Will Sainz’s experience and leadership help Williams reclaim their former glory? The journey has just begun.
