Williams A ‘Better Car’ Than Sainz Expected

Carlos Sainz has admitted he was pleasantly surprised by the Williams car he’ll pilot in 2025, exceeding his expectations after a standout pre-season test in Bahrain. The Spaniard, overlooked by Mercedes and Red Bull when Ferrari opted for Lewis Hamilton, faced a midfield choice between Alpine and Williams. Now, the four-time grand prix winner’s early pace suggests he might have landed on his feet.

Sainz topped the timesheets at Bahrain’s sole pre-season outing, prompting Alpine advisor Flavio Briatore to call it a “mistake” move. Yet former F1 driver Shinji Nakano offered perspective to as-web.jp: “You can’t say that the pre-season test times directly reflect the power balance for the 2025 season. However, if the car platform itself is poor, you cannot get a good time like that even if you attack with less fuel, so I think the fact that Williams was able to record the fastest time is proof of the evolution from last year’s car.” His analysis points to a chassis leap, not just a low-fuel fluke.

Sainz, speaking to Spanish broadcaster DAZN, echoed the optimism: “I saw that it was a better car and a better team than I expected. We were fast and I was able to adapt quickly.” The 30-year-old had braced for a grind, but Williams’ showing has shifted the outlook.

Team boss James Vowles, who weeks ago tempered hopes—saying even regular points would be tough—now sees light: “Positions are difficult to predict. But the important thing is that we should have the car regularly in the points. But we are not looking for results in particular weekends this year. We need to apply development and processes that bear fruit in the long term. That’s how you fight for world championships.” His focus is on building, not chasing quick wins.

Sainz shares the vision: “We are in a process of change that generates good feelings. Sponsors are arriving, we are signing engineers and people who want to join the project. This shows that Williams is serious and that we have a clear view about how to return to the top.” With fresh talent and backing, Williams’ midfield days could be numbered. Bahrain’s pace—however caveat-laden—hints at a team on the rise, and Sainz’s surprise might just signal a 2025 dark horse.