Williams already enjoying ‘positive momentum’ from Sainz input

Carlos Sainz's arrival at Williams is already proving to be a catalyst for positive change, according to team principal James Vowles.

The former Ferrari charger, who will race this season alongside Alex Albo, has wasted no time in integrating himself into the squad and shaping its development direction.

Sainz enjoyed his first taste of Williams machinery during last year’s end-of-season F1 test in Abu Dhabi, and according to Vowles, he instantly switched his mindset to his new challenge and made immediate contributions, both in and out of the car.

"He's relishing it," Vowles told Motorsport.com at the Autosport Awards earlier this week. "You could see from the moment he jumped in the car in Abu Dhabi, his mind switched.

“This is where he wants to be, this is what he wants to do, he's part of our success story. He's fitting in perfectly.”

Sainz's Influence Beyond the Track

Beyond his on-track capabilities, Sainz's off-track dedication and approach have already left a strong impression at Grove.

"He's a brilliant personality who, with him, brings not only race-winning pedigree but this want and desire for Williams to be successful," Vowles continued.

"I was there with him this morning, with Alex and myself, for three, four hours – just talking through plans for the year, what we've changed, where we're going."

The Spaniard has been working with the team at their factory since last month, and his technical input has been invaluable as Williams strives to close the gap to the front of the grid.

"His contributions – as are Alex's as well – are absolutely key for driving this team forward, because it's now into a level of detail where you're starting to chase milliseconds as opposed to the big-ticket items we work for," Vowles added.

"Already in the space of just a few weeks, real positive momentum from ideas, concepts, how we can change, how we can move forward, is coming."

A History of Team Improvement

Sainz joins an elite group of drivers to have raced for Ferrari, McLaren, and Williams – Formula 1’s three most successive team that embody immense heritage.

While he has faced stiff competition from highly regarded teammates like Lando Norris and Charles Leclerc, his impact has consistently extended beyond pure pace.

According to Vowles, Sainz has always played a crucial role in improving the teams he's been a part of, contributing to Ferrari's return to title contention in 2023 – their first genuine championship fight since 2018.

"He also doesn't leave a stone unturned," Vowles emphasized. "I mean, there's a statistic up on the F1 channel today where you look at all the teams he's been to and where they've ended up.

“It's not a coincidence. He's a hard worker, a diligent worker that brings with him success – and he wants us to be successful."

With Williams looking to build on its steady progress in recent seasons, Sainz's experience, technical acumen, and relentless work ethic could prove pivotal in accelerating the team’s resurgence.

While the 2025 season is still weeks away, his early involvement suggests he could be the catalyst Williams needs to return to the front of the grid.

Williams: Sainz and Albon to push each other, with 'no politics’

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