Carlos Sainz has called on Williams to “do more” amid struggles in the midfield battle, according to PlanetF1.com. The plea comes as the F1 2026 season unfolds and speculation grows regarding his long-term future with the team.
What happened
Williams has had a challenging start to the F1 2026 season, trailing expectations after its FW48 arrived both late and overweight. After seven rounds, Williams sits eighth in the teams’ championship with just 11 points, achieving its best finish of eighth in Monaco. Multiple sources indicate Sainz is reconsidering his position, especially with Audi emerging as a potential option.[2]
Sainz, a four-time race winner, expressed urgency to improve performance following a disappointing race in Barcelona. “I know what’s coming… upgrades tend to work,” Sainz said. However, he noted doubts about whether those upgrades will significantly reduce the gap to competitors. “We need to do more than what we are doing already,” Sainz insisted.[1]
After the Barcelona GP, team principal James Vowles acknowledged the team’s difficulties, stating that the situation has not lived up to expectations. Williams has made efforts to reduce car weight and boost performance, but Sainz’s recent struggles highlight clear ongoing challenges.[3]
Why it matters
The immediate performance of Williams in F1 2026 is pivotal, not only for Sainz’s future but also for the team’s long-term competitiveness. As the team seeks to rebuild, pressure mounts to deliver results that could influence driver retention and sponsorship opportunities.
With current team members under contract for F1 2027, Sainz’s potential move to Audi underscores the stakes involved. His uncertainty reflects broader concerns that could stymie Williams’ aspirations to return to championship contention.
Background
On May 20, 2026, Williams introduced a new rear wing at the Barcelona GP in an attempt to enhance downforce. The FW48’s underperformance has been evident all season, and expectations were high for improvements. Previous upgrades made in Miami and Canada have not yielded the desired results.
Williams, now under the ownership of Dorilton Capital, had aimed to revitalize its legacy in racing. The team’s initial ambitions in F1 2026 were met with setbacks, deeply affecting both driver morale and team strategy.
What’s next
The next challenge for Williams will come at the Red Bull Ring on July 13, 2026, where Sainz hopes for a better outcome. Following that, the calendar includes more demanding circuits that may further test the team’s capabilities and Sainz’s resolve.
