Carlos Sainz is a proven race winner and one of the most consistent performers in modern Formula 1. The Spaniard left Ferrari at the end of 2024 after being displaced by Lewis Hamilton’s arrival, joining Williams as the centrepiece of their ambitious rebuild under new ownership.
For 2026, Sainz brings invaluable experience of fighting at the front to a team hungry to return there. His years at Ferrari gave him the knowledge of what a championship-contending operation looks like, and Williams will lean heavily on his development direction as they build their new-regulation car. Paired with Alexander Albon, Williams have two proven, reliable drivers capable of maximizing every opportunity.
Sainz’s greatest strength is his versatility. He can win from the front, recover from the back, manage tyres with precision, and deliver in mixed conditions. He rarely has a bad weekend, which is exactly what a developing team needs.
Spanish fans have two home events in 2026. The Barcelona-Catalunya Grand Prix in June and the brand new Madrid race in September, both starting at 14:00 CEST. The European schedule is ideally suited to Spanish viewing times, with most races falling in comfortable afternoon slots.