Carlos SainzJenson Button 
via f1oversteer.comWilliams made a promise to Carlos Sainz in private meeting before he signed new F1 contractWilliams have managed to convince Carlos Sainz to stay on board for 2027, despite his public outrage over the team’s current situation. After scoring two ...
f1oversteer.comWed 30 Sep · 18:30 UTC
via Motorsport.comHow Carlos Sainz bounced back from the most difficult moment of his F1 careerCarlos Sainz, reflecting on his time with Williams ahead of the 2026 Azerbaijan Grand Prix, shared his mixed feelings about the current season. Despite feeling at the peak of his driving abilities, he has faced significant challenges due to the performance of the FW48, leading to a frustrating year without the expected results.
Sainz expressed his commitment to the Williams project, citing trust in the team's vision and the supportive environment he has found there. He highlighted the importance of feeling listened to as a driver and compared his current experience to his successful years at McLaren. Sainz remains hopeful for improvement in the future as he continues to contribute his expertise to the team.
Motorsport.comWed 30 Sep · 07:00 UTC
via Motorsport.comWilliams reaches Q3 for first time in 2026Williams achieved a significant milestone by progressing to Q3 for the first time in the 2026 season during the Azerbaijan Grand Prix. However, the team faced challenges as Carlos Sainz received a grid penalty, impacting their overall performance.Motorsport.com+ 1 moreTue 29 Sep · 10:22 UTC
via F1iWilliams drivers positive on new package, but 'we need more'Carlos Sainz and Alex Albon of Williams expressed cautious optimism following the team's recent upgrades to the FW48, which helped Sainz secure the team's first point in ten races at the Azerbaijan Grand Prix. Sainz highlighted the improvements made, particularly in qualifying, but acknowledged that the team still needs more performance to consistently compete for points.
While Sainz celebrated the point, he also noted the need for further enhancements to the car's aerodynamics. Albon, who crashed early in the race, echoed this sentiment, stating that the car's pace was encouraging but still lacking in certain areas. Both drivers agree that while the upgrades have made the car more enjoyable to drive, additional performance is essential for regular competitiveness.
F1iTue 29 Sep · 08:41 UTC
via Motorsport.comWilliams F1 announces huge K-pop star TZUYU collaborationWilliams F1 has partnered with K-pop star TZUYU to create the official theme song for its collaboration with the anime DAN DA DAN. TZUYU, known for her work with the girl group TWICE, expressed her excitement about merging the worlds of Formula 1, anime, and music.
The collaboration will feature special events at the Singapore Grand Prix, where fans can engage with the partnership. Williams' merchandise director highlighted the significance of having TZUYU involved, aiming to reach new audiences globally. The project aims to showcase the energy and excitement of both Formula 1 and the anime series.Motorsport.comMon 28 Sep · 17:46 UTC
via Motorsport.comAlex Albon and Carlos Sainz reveal F1 boys' trip plansAlex Albon and Carlos Sainz have announced plans for a boys' trip in Asia, taking advantage of the schedule between the Bahrain Grand Prix and the Singapore Grand Prix. They mentioned that several Formula 1 drivers will join them, and Albon expressed excitement about the trip during an interview ahead of the Azerbaijan Grand Prix.
The trip comes as Sainz faces a five-place grid penalty for failing to slow under yellow flag conditions, starting the Azerbaijan Grand Prix from 14th position. Both drivers are currently positioned low in the championship standings, with Sainz in 16th and Albon in 17th.Motorsport.comSat 26 Sep · 10:43 UTC
via RacingNews365Carlos Sainz receives grid penalty for Azerbaijan GPCarlos Sainz's impressive qualifying performance for the 2026 Formula 1 Azerbaijan Grand Prix has been overshadowed by a five-place grid penalty. The penalty alters the starting grid ahead of the race in Baku.
RacingNews365+ 1 moreFri 25 Sep · 19:00 UTC
via Motorsport.comWilliams’ long-awaited F1 upgrade is delivering in Baku – but was Q3 an “overachievement”?Williams Racing has celebrated its best qualifying result of the 2026 season at the Azerbaijan Grand Prix, with Carlos Sainz achieving 9th place in qualifying. This improvement comes after the introduction of a new chassis that has addressed the car's previous weight issues, allowing for better performance on the track.
Despite the positive outcome, both Sainz and Alexander Albon expressed caution regarding the upgrade's potential, noting that the car's handling remains a concern. Albon highlighted the need for further aerodynamic improvements as they prepare for the upcoming races in Malaysia and Singapore, which feature different track characteristics.Motorsport.comFri 25 Sep · 18:36 UTC
via the-race.comSainz loses Williams's best grid slot of 2026Carlos Sainz, driving for Williams, has been handed a five-place grid penalty for failing to heed yellow flags during the Azerbaijan Grand Prix qualifying session. This penalty means Sainz will start from 14th position, denying Williams its best grid slot of the year, which was previously held by Alex Albon in 11th place. The stewards determined that Sainz did not adequately reduce his speed in the relevant yellow-flag sector, despite receiving warnings from his team.
In addition to Sainz's penalty, Sergio Perez of Cadillac also faced a three-position penalty for impeding McLaren's Oscar Piastri. However, due to engine component penalties affecting Aston Martin drivers, Perez will only drop one position, starting from 20th. The penalties highlight the strict enforcement of yellow flag regulations and traffic management during qualifying sessions in Formula 1.
the-race.comFri 25 Sep · 15:44 UTC
via f1chronicle.comCarlos Sainz’s Underrated Record at the Azerbaijan Grand PrixCarlos Sainz Jr. had a remarkable performance at the 2025 Azerbaijan Grand Prix, qualifying second and finishing third, marking a significant achievement for Williams. This result was their first front-row start since 2021 and showcased Sainz's skill in navigating the challenging Baku circuit, despite the team's struggles with car handling in previous races.
Throughout his career at Baku, Sainz has consistently demonstrated his ability to perform well, with five top-10 finishes in seven races. His best result came in 2023 when he finished fifth with Ferrari, and he has maintained a solid average finishing position at the track. Sainz's recent podium finish is a testament to his talent and resilience, contributing to Williams' hopes for a resurgence in performance.
f1chronicle.comFri 25 Sep · 11:03 UTC
via Motorsport.comDavid Coulthard warns "heads will roll" if Williams FW48 upgrade failsDavid Coulthard has issued a stark warning regarding the Williams FW48 upgrade, stating that significant consequences could follow if it fails to improve the team's performance. The Grove-based team has struggled throughout the season, currently sitting ninth in the constructors' championship with only 11 points, largely due to the car's overweight issues.
The upgrade, described by team principal James Vowles as nearly a B-spec car, is aimed at enhancing performance at the Azerbaijan Grand Prix. Coulthard, drawing comparisons to Aston Martin's previous upgrades, believes that the changes should yield a notable improvement. However, he cautioned that if the expected results do not materialise, there could be serious repercussions for the team.Motorsport.comThu 24 Sep · 17:10 UTCvia Motorsport.comDavid Coulthard warns "heads will roll" if Williams FW48 upgrade failsDavid Coulthard has issued a stark warning regarding the Williams FW48 upgrade, stating that significant consequences could follow if it fails to improve the team's performance. The Grove-based team has struggled throughout the season, currently sitting ninth in the constructors' championship with only 11 points, largely due to the car's overweight issues.
The upgrade, described by team principal James Vowles as nearly a B-spec car, is aimed at enhancing performance at the Azerbaijan Grand Prix. Coulthard, drawing comparisons to Aston Martin's previous upgrades, believes that the changes should yield a notable improvement. However, he cautioned that if the expected results do not materialise, there could be serious repercussions for the team.Motorsport.comThu 24 Sep · 17:10 UTC
via RacingNews365Carlos Sainz Williams on fire as multiple F1 drivers suffer brake issuesDuring the first practice session for the Azerbaijan Grand Prix, Carlos Sainz faced significant brake issues when the rear brakes of his Williams caught fire as he returned to the garage. This incident was part of a larger trend, as multiple drivers reported brake problems in the opening minutes of the session.
Isack Hadjar, returning to Red Bull after an injury, noted severe pulling on his brakes, while Oscar Piastri from McLaren expressed concerns about extreme vibrations. Alex Albon, Sainz's teammate, also mentioned unusual brake behaviour, highlighting a troubling start for the Williams team.RacingNews365Thu 24 Sep · 08:58 UTC
via Motorsport WeekCarlos Sainz suggests F1 rule tweak amid VSC ‘unfairness’Carlos Sainz has voiced concerns over the fairness of the current Virtual Safety Car (VSC) rules in Formula 1, particularly following Lando Norris's loss of victory in Madrid due to a VSC. Sainz, who is a director of the Grand Prix Driver's Association, believes that the timing of VSCs can unfairly benefit certain drivers while disadvantaging others, especially when it comes to pit stops.
Sainz suggested that changes could be made to improve the situation, such as extending the duration of VSCs or closing the pit lane during these periods. He emphasised that the rules should not drastically alter race outcomes and expressed hope that if more drivers share their views, the sport might consider revising the VSC regulations.
Motorsport WeekWed 23 Sep · 15:30 UTC
via gpfans.comJenson Button's wife defends Charles Leclerc's actionsJenson Button's wife has come to the defence of Charles Leclerc following criticism from David Coulthard regarding Leclerc's behaviour off the track. The Ferrari driver has faced scrutiny for prioritising family commitments, prompting support from Button's wife.
gpfans.com+ 1 moreTue 22 Sep · 21:27 UTC
via f1oversteer.comFernando Alonso unhappy that Spain’s F1 commentator is ‘protecting’ Carlos SainzFernando Alonso expressed his dissatisfaction with Spanish F1 commentator Antonio Lobato, claiming he is biased in favour of Carlos Sainz. This criticism follows a collision between the two drivers during the Spanish Grand Prix, where Alonso suffered front-wing damage and Sainz received a penalty for his actions. Alonso's frustrations led him to boycott interviews with DAZN, the broadcaster that employs Lobato, for several months.
After the race, Alonso spoke to DAZN for the first time in months, but journalist Julianne Cerasoli suggested this was merely to criticise Sainz. The tension between Alonso and Sainz has escalated as they now compete in different teams, with Alonso's Aston Martin and Sainz's Williams facing off on the grid. Despite their past relationship, Alonso's perception of bias from Lobato has strained his willingness to engage with Spanish media.f1oversteer.comTue 22 Sep · 14:00 UTC
via f1oversteer.comCarlos Sainz labels 2026 Williams 'the worst car I've ever had' because it has 'no strengths'Carlos Sainz has expressed his frustration with the 2026 Williams FW48, calling it the worst car he has ever driven in his career. He highlighted the car's lack of strengths and numerous weaknesses, which have contributed to Williams' struggles this season, currently sitting in P9 in the constructors' standings with only 11 points.
Despite his dissatisfaction, Sainz remains hopeful for improvements with an upcoming upgrade for the Azerbaijan Grand Prix. He emphasized the importance of verifying the effectiveness of the new upgrade and its correlation with the team's future car developments, as he aims to compete more effectively in the coming seasons.f1oversteer.comTue 22 Sep · 08:00 UTC
via Motorsport.comSainz advises Williams junior Green to embrace risksCarlos Sainz has encouraged 13-year-old Will Green, a junior driver for Williams, to take risks as he transitions from karting to single-seaters. Sainz emphasised the importance of pushing limits rather than focusing solely on consistency in his racing development.Motorsport.com+ 1 moreMon 21 Sep · 14:42 UTC
via RacingNews365Verstappen crashes after life-threatening blowout as Hamilton suffers 'magic button' mishapDuring the 2021 Azerbaijan Grand Prix, Max Verstappen experienced a life-threatening crash when his left-rear tyre exploded at high speed, leading to a collision with the wall. This incident occurred on lap 46, and Verstappen reported feeling no prior warning before the blowout. Pirelli later investigated and found no manufacturing defects in the tyres, attributing the failure to the specific running conditions on the track.
Simultaneously, Lewis Hamilton faced his own challenges when a switch on his steering wheel caused him to lose control at Turn 1 during the race restart. This mishap resulted in both championship contenders failing to score points, leaving the title fight unchanged but highlighting the precarious nature of their competition. Following the race, Mercedes made adjustments to their steering wheel design to avoid similar issues in the future.RacingNews365Mon 21 Sep · 13:15 UTC
via PlanetF1The uncomfortable truth about Carlos SainzCarlos Sainz's transition from Ferrari to Williams has not gone as hoped, with his recent performances raising concerns about his future in Formula 1. After winning the 2024 Mexican Grand Prix, Sainz's career trajectory has taken a downturn, marked by penalties and collisions that have tarnished his reputation. His struggles have been compounded by the competitive nature of the midfield, where he finds himself once again after years of striving to escape it.
Despite his efforts to remain positive and committed to Williams, Sainz's age and the team's current standing may limit his opportunities for advancement. He has openly acknowledged the need to reassess his situation, especially after failing to secure a move to a more competitive team like Audi. As he faces the reality of his career, Sainz is determined to work hard and improve, hoping to reclaim a position where he can compete for significant achievements in the sport.
PlanetF1Sat 19 Sep · 06:12 UTC
via f1oversteer.comFernando Alonso’s unheard Spanish GP radio shows Carlos Sainz owes him an apologyDuring the recent Spanish Grand Prix, Carlos Sainz was penalized for an incident involving Fernando Alonso, which led to a heated exchange between the two drivers. Sainz expressed his frustration, claiming Alonso's radio complaints were an attempt to influence the stewards' decision against him.
Alonso's radio messages revealed that he felt Sainz had squeezed him into the wall, and he communicated this to his race engineer. Despite the tension, both drivers had a challenging race, with Sainz retiring early and Alonso finishing far down the order.f1oversteer.comWed 16 Sep · 12:30 UTC%2FSainz%2520header.webp&w=1200&q=70)
via Formula1.comHow Sainz’s home race in Madrid unravelledCarlos Sainz had a challenging home race in Madrid, where he failed to finish due to a series of incidents and penalties. After qualifying in P20 due to a three-place grid penalty for impeding another driver, Sainz's race took a turn for the worse when he made contact with Yuki Tsunoda on the first lap, resulting in floor damage that severely impacted his car's performance. Ultimately, he retired after 43 laps, feeling that even with a perfect race, he would not have finished higher than 16th.
Alex Albon, Sainz's teammate, also faced difficulties during the race, qualifying in P16 and finishing ahead of Sainz. Albon struggled with tire management and pace, particularly on harder tires, which affected his ability to maintain grip. Despite the disappointing results, Sainz appreciated the support from the fans and expressed hope for better performances in future races.
Formula1.comTue 15 Sep · 14:31 UTC
via PlanetF1Nico Rosberg points finger at Carlos Sainz as Madring underwhelmsNico Rosberg has publicly criticized Carlos Sainz following the Spanish Grand Prix, where the Madring circuit failed to provide adequate overtaking opportunities. Rosberg emphasized that Sainz, as an ambassador for the circuit, should be held accountable for its shortcomings. The race was described as processional, with Kimi Antonelli winning while merely managing his tires, and drivers like Lando Norris and Max Verstappen expressing frustration over the lack of competitive racing due to the track's design.
In response to the disappointing race, Sainz acknowledged the need for improvements, suggesting that the circuit should remain open-minded to changes that could enhance overtaking. Other drivers, including Norris and Alonso, echoed these sentiments, pointing out specific corners that could be modified to create better racing conditions. Overall, the feedback from the drivers indicates a strong desire for the Madring to evolve into a more engaging race track.PlanetF1Tue 15 Sep · 06:04 UTC
via RacingNews365Carlos Sainz blames Fernando Alonso for penaltyCarlos Sainz has accused Fernando Alonso of influencing the decision that led to his five-second penalty during the Spanish Grand Prix. Sainz stated that Alonso's radio complaints were a factor in the stewards' ruling regarding their collision.RacingNews365+ 1 moreMon 14 Sep · 14:30 UTC