Carlos Sainz Sr Dakar Rally 2024
Carlos Sainz has revealed that his father is “still disappointed” after he turned down a tempting offer from Audi for the 2025 season and beyond. Instead, the 30-year-old Spaniard surprised many by signing with Williams, a decision that raised eyebrows after Sainz topped the timesheets at the Bahrain pre-season test.
“This was a surprise for us too,” Sainz said with a grin. “But the excitement in the team is more important than the fastest time. Everyone is working even harder now. We’re heading into Australia with some real hope.”
Family Tension Over the Audi Snub
Sainz’s decision to join Williams went against the advice of his father, Carlos Sainz Sr., a legendary rally champion who recently claimed victory with Audi at the Dakar Rally.
“My father is still disappointed that I didn’t accept the great offer from Audi,” Sainz admitted to Blick newspaper.
After hopes of securing a seat at Red Bull or Mercedes faded, Sainz was left with three options: Audi, Alpine, and Williams. His gut instinct, however, led him to Williams.
“After visiting the factories and having the discussions, my gut immediately told me to go to Williams,” Sainz explained. “They’re building toward a better future. And when my heart also said yes, the decision was made. Now I hope that my father, who had great success with Audi, will eventually be happy with my choice.”
Audi Facing Challenges Without Sainz
Sauber-Audi’s F1 boss Mattia Binotto is already managing expectations for 2025. With Nico Hülkenberg and rookie Gabriel Bortoleto in the lineup, Binotto admitted that scoring points in Melbourne will be tough.
“If everything plays out as expected, McLaren, Ferrari, Red Bull, and Mercedes—along with Sainz and [Pierre] Gasly—will likely take the top ten spots,” Binotto said.
Sauber had a rough 2024 season, finishing dead last—one spot behind Williams. “A quick points-scoring result would certainly lift the team’s morale,” Binotto added.
Bernie Backs Sainz’s Decision
While Sainz Sr. may have reservations, former F1 supremo Bernie Ecclestone believes Sainz made the right call.
“Ferrari will regret letting him go,” the 94-year-old told Blick. “Carlos is already proving his value at Williams. It’s like in my time—give a team with a mediocre car one of the top five drivers, and you’ll see a surprise.”
Sainz is betting on Williams’ long-term vision, even if it means going against family expectations. With the season opener just around the corner, the pressure is on—but if Bahrain was any indication, Sainz might just have made the smartest move of his career.
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