Carlos Sainz to Williams in 2025: James Vowles reacts to F1 driver market rumors. James Vowles on the market rumors suggesting Carlos Sainz is close to signing with Williams.

In a Canadian weekend that has been insignificant and unexciting so far in terms of on-track action due to rain, the Montreal paddock has at least offered interesting insights on the driver market front, with the waters starting to stir more and more in anticipation of what will probably be the most heated Silly Season of the last decade.

Will Carlos Sainz move to Williams?
The balance could be shifted by Carlos Sainz, still searching for a seat for 2025 after announcing his separation from Scuderia Ferrari, and whose options seem to have narrowed to two.

Given Audi’s interest in having the Spaniard alongside Nico Hulkenberg to arrive in 2026 with a solid and experienced line-up, Williams appears to have taken the lead in recent days, although Carlos Sainz himself has denied having already signed as reported by some Spanish media.

Asked about the market rumors, James Vowles, team principal of the English team since last season, commented: “Why Williams? Let’s answer that question. There’s a reason I’m here: Williams is not the same as it was three years ago. And by definition, the fact that we have spoken to Carlos shows that we have changed our approach.” – he pointed out.

“We want two top-level drivers to be part of our team in the future. We want the world to realize that we are here, that we are serious, and that we are investing to return to the front line.”

“In 2026 we will have one of the best power units, if not the best, coming to our car. We will announce it shortly, I hope, but about 30 incredible people from other teams have joined our organization over the last 12 months.” – the British motorsport engineer and Team Principal of Williams Racing added.

“The world is changing, and a driver like Carlos is very important in this sense regarding the overall picture of our situation. Naturally, the difference is that he has the option to choose whether to come here or not. The choice is up to him.”

Finally, when asked if he believes Carlos Sainz is convinced by the English team’s proposal, James Vowles replied: “It’s hard to say. I think he can see all the strengths. I think it’s easy for me to say because I’m part of Williams and wearing the shirt, but I believe it’s an easy decision to come here. However, he has to make that choice.”

Source: f1ingenerale