“It’s going to be a challenge to make it into top 10”: Carlos Sainz explains why Williams faces challenges in reaching podium contention

Carlos Sainz Jr. will be driving for Williams-Mercedes in the 2025 Formula 1 season, following his move from Ferrari. However, he has expressed that he is realistically aiming for the 2026 season rather than expecting immediate results in his first year with the team. While he is ready for the challenges ahead, Sainz remains grounded, stating that he "is not expecting" to be competing for top-five finishes in the opening race of the season. Sainz recently did a shakedown of 2025’s FW47 at Silverstone.
Carlos Sainz’ calls F1 2025 season “a transition year”
Carlos Sainz’ comments come after McLaren expressed some hope that Williams-Mercedes convergence may give an unexpected race winner. "It would be a surprise, yeah," Sainz said, as quoted by Motorsport Week. He further elaborated, explaining that 2025 will be a "transition year" and a period of preparation for future opportunities. He emphasized that Williams is aiming to bridge the gap between the midfield, where the team was last year, and the top four teams.
“The gap is smaller than ever,” Sainz observed. “In qualifying last year, there were only three or four tenths separating the top teams from the midfield, and those tenths are hard to find in this era of restricted budgets and regulations. It’s going to be a challenge just to make it into the top 10, given the fierce competition.”
Despite the challenges, Sainz is determined to make the most of every opportunity in the upcoming season. After clinching two victories during his final campaign with Ferrari, he is eager to capitalize on his new role. “I’m ready for those fights,” Sainz said. “If a podium comes, I’ll be more than happy, but I’m not expecting to fight for podiums or even top-five finishes in the first race." He did add that he would be the proudest the day he would stand on the podium as a Williams team member.

Last week, Carlos had arrived in Williams’ white at the launch of Formula One new season at London’s O2 Arena on the occasion of the motorsport’s 75th anniversary. Sharing a glimpse from the event on his Instagram page, he wrote, “What a night! Celebrating 75 years of F1 and finally revealing the 2025 livery. Excited for what’s ahead!”
Also read: “Great choice!”: Fans react to Carlos Sainz’s selection as the Grand Prix Drivers’ Association's (GPDA) new director
Sainz is also the new director of the Grand Prix Drivers' Association (GPDA). He is currently adapting to the Mercedes power unit at Williams which he feels is the “biggest change” from what he experienced at Ferrari.