Carlos Sainz secured a significant career highlight at the Azerbaijan Grand Prix by earning his first podium finish as a Williams driver. After qualifying on the front row in Baku, Sainz aimed for a podium and delivered by finishing third in a strong performance. However, his father, rally legend Carlos Sainz Sr., admitted that his son may not have fully believed such a result was within reach.
Record-Breaking Qualifying Sets the Stage
The Azerbaijan Grand Prix qualifying session was historic, interrupted six times by red flags—the highest ever recorded in an F1 qualifier. As the session neared its conclusion, Sainz found himself temporarily leading the field, applying pressure on Williams to maximize their rain strategy amid light precipitation on the track. Despite being challenged, only Max Verstappen, Sainz’s former teammate from Toro Rosso, surpassed him to claim pole position for the second consecutive race.
Starting from second place marked a remarkable achievement for both Sainz and the Williams team. Immediately after qualifying, Sainz expressed his clear ambition for the race.
Plan for tomorrow, try and stick it in the podium,
Sainz stated.
I think I’m going to give it my best to give Williams that first podium [sic]. If it’s possible, great. And if it’s not, we will see.
True to his word, Sainz finished third, securing a podium in a season that has presented numerous challenges while driving for Williams. This accomplishment marked a major milestone in his ongoing campaign.
Father’s Perspective: A Surprising Success
Despite his son’s confident post-qualifying remarks, Carlos Sainz Sr. revealed that deep down, Sainz might not have expected to reach the podium. The elder Sainz highlighted the rarity and significance of the achievement, especially given the circumstances of the race.
This time it was a podium with Williams, which is an excellent result, especially because it wasn’t thanks to yellow flags or the Safety Car or rain or getting the tyres right,
he said, according to Marca.
A podium finish with Williams is a very special achievement. I think it must be very special for him because I don’t think he thought he would be able to achieve such a result, and in the end it happened.
Looking Ahead: Focus on the Remaining Season and Future Improvements
With seven rounds still to be contested in the 2025 season, Sainz’s father emphasized the importance of maintaining focus and determination. He remains hopeful that upcoming changes in chassis and engine regulations in 2026 will create more opportunities for competitive Williams performances.
Now he has to turn the page, keep working hard and think about the next one,
Sainz Sr. advised.
Trying to have a good end to the season, continuing to learn, continuing to motivate and teaming up with Williams, and hoping that next year they will have a good car with all the rule changes that are coming.
This milestone podium for Carlos Sainz Williams drivers signals a potential turning point in both the driver’s career and the team’s trajectory, encouraging fans and stakeholders to watch closely as the season progresses and plans develop ahead of the new regulations.
