Carlos Sainz has signed a new multi-year contract with Williams, securing his future with the Grove-based outfit beyond the 2026 Formula 1 season. This agreement, announced on Wednesday, August 19, 2026, confirms Sainz will remain a central figure in Williams’ long-term rebuilding initiative.
The deal finalises Williams’ driver lineup for its 50th anniversary season in 2027. It follows the confirmation on Tuesday, August 18, 2026, that Alex Albon had also extended his stay with the team through 2027.
Sainz joined Williams in 2025 after his departure from Ferrari, where he was replaced by Lewis Hamilton. His inaugural season at Grove saw Williams achieve its best Constructors’ Championship finish since 2016, placing fifth overall.
During the 2025 campaign, Sainz secured two Grand Prix podiums, in Azerbaijan and Qatar. He also added a Sprint podium in Austin, contributing significantly to the team’s performance.
The current 2026 season has presented Williams with significant challenges. The team currently sits ninth in the Constructors’ Championship after 11 races, having accumulated 11 points.
The Williams FW48 car for 2026 has been affected by an overweight chassis and various technical issues. These problems led to the team missing the pre-season Barcelona shakedown.
Sainz expressed his confidence in the team’s direction despite the current difficulties. He highlighted his belief in the personnel, the ongoing investments, and the hard work at both the factory and the racetracks.
‘I’m thrilled to announce my continued journey with the Atlassian Williams F1 Team family,’ Sainz stated. ‘I truly believe in the people that form this team, both at the factory and at the racetracks, and the investments and hard work that are happening in the background. We have what it takes to turn this around together.’
Team Principal James Vowles has consistently emphasised the long-term nature of Williams’ transformation project. He noted that securing both Sainz and Albon provides one of the grid’s strongest driver lineups.
Albon, who joined Williams in 2022, recently surpassed 100 race starts for the team, making him the longest-serving driver in its history. His commitment, alongside Sainz’s, underpins the team’s stability.
Williams is expected to introduce an upgrade package, including a new chassis, at the Azerbaijan Grand Prix in late September. However, the team’s focus is increasingly shifting towards the 2027 regulations.
Sainz brings significant experience to Williams, having competed for Toro Rosso, Renault, McLaren, and Ferrari before his move to Grove. His career includes four Grand Prix wins, six pole positions, and 29 podium finishes.
The cost cap regulations influence the timing and introduction of new components. This requires careful management of development, balancing cost, stock levels, and performance gains throughout the season.
Both drivers remain united in their commitment to guiding Williams back to a competitive position. The team aims to build on its legacy of nine Constructors’ World Championships.
