Sainz Shone in Baku: Historic Podium with Williams and Revenge in F1

Sainz Celebrates Podium with Williams in Baku

The joy on Carlos Sainz’s face after his first podium with Williams in the Azerbaijan Grand Prix was evident, even after a diverted flight. He shared his happiness with Charles Leclerc on Instagram stories, as they both headed to Monaco in a rental van.

“We were diverted by a storm and couldn’t land in Nice. So we landed in central Italy, rented a van and now we’re on our way to Monaco,” Sainz explained to Leclerc’s camera.

Carlos Sainz

Sainz, at the wheel, joked about reducing the estimated arrival time. This third place in Baku is a respite after a season with results below his expectations.

This podium in Azerbaijan not only represents a personal achievement, but also a vindication for Sainz, who has faced criticism and challenges since his arrival at Williams. Although the result in Baku may have been influenced by the poor performance of other drivers, especially from McLaren, Sainz demonstrated his skill with an impeccable qualifying and an error-free race. Sainz acknowledged the disappointing results at Williams up to that point, but also the sweet reward of his first podium with the team.

“Unfortunately, we have had a lot of bad luck, many incidents, it’s very difficult to convert all that rhythm into results. But now I understand why it all happened, because the first podium had to come like this. That’s life, you know?” commented Sainz.

Carlos Sainz

Despite the 15 points obtained in Baku, Sainz has still not reached half of the points of his teammate, Alex Albon, in the season. Consistency and avoiding problems have always been key in Sainz’s reputation, so the lost opportunities in 2025 are even more frustrating.

Adapting to a new car after four years at Ferrari is a factor, but Sainz’s performance in qualifying sessions has demonstrated his potential. The difference between Sainz and Albon on a single lap has been minimal, indicating that his Sunday performances have been inconsistent. Sainz highlights that he has been fast with the car throughout the season, even though the results haven’t reflected it. This podium is a reward for his work and effort. The arrival of Sainz at Williams was finalized after Ferrari’s decision not to renew his contract for 2025. The decision to join Williams was motivated by James Vowles’ project, who offered him a long-term vision.

Vowles viewed the 2025 season as a challenge, focusing on the 2026 regulation changes. The result in Azerbaijan, the product of a genuine pace in difficult conditions, was even more significant.

“This means even more because, obviously, a year ago, when I bet on Williams, I said I was going to this team because I really believe in this project and I believe this team is on the rise,” Sainz affirmed.

Carlos Sainz

Sainz’s podium was also praised by Vowles, who highlighted his deservedness and his impact on the team.

This podium for Sainz with Williams came before Hamilton’s first podium with Ferrari, which underlines the magnitude of his achievement. Sainz prefers to focus on the future and on his project with Williams, without comparisons with other drivers.

“What others do is none of my business, to be honest. What matters to me is that the first opportunity I had to get a podium with Williams, and the first opportunity Williams had to get a podium, we took it, we got it and there it is”, said Sainz.

Carlos Sainz

Sainz is committed to the Williams project and its goal of taking the team to victory. The podium in Baku is a sign of hope in a season with irregular results, and faith in future successes has doubled since Sunday.