Williams F1 boss says Carlos Sainz likely to stay with team

Williams technical director James Vowles emphasised that Spanish driver Carlos Sainz wants to finish his Formula 1 career at Williams, despite his contract ending after the 2026 season. Vowles said Sainz has expressed a desire to stay and put his “DNA” into the project, while acknowledging the driver still has other options on the grid.

Vowles highlighted upcoming upgrades for the Silverstone race and a larger package planned for the Azerbaijan Grand Prix as key steps to improve the FW48’s performance and convince Sainz to remain. He noted the team is behind schedule in some areas of its rebuilding programme but is confident that recent and future developments will demonstrate progress to the driver.