Carlos Sainz has dismissed speculation linking him to Audi F1, labelling the reports as standard paddock rumours while reaffirming his commitment to Williams.
Sainz enjoyed a strong debut campaign with Williams, scoring podium finishes in Baku and Qatar in 2025.
However, the Grove-based team has struggled during the opening phase of the 2026 regulations, dropping toward the rear of the midfield alongside newcomers Cadillac and struggling Aston Martin.
Despite those development struggles, Sainz signed a multi-year contract extension with Williams ahead of the Dutch Grand Prix.
Addressing claims that he considered a move to Audi for 2027, Sainz clarified that a transfer was never on his radar.
“No, it was just the usual paddock rumours,” Sainz said. “I can confirm that this year I never seriously considered going anywhere else.”
Sainz explained that jumping ship during a difficult period goes against his personal values.
“I’ve never liked leaving a team when it’s going through a difficult period,” Sainz added.
“It’s not in my character to go somewhere else if the situation has become worse since I joined the team. When I committed to the Williams project, I knew there could be difficult moments, and even though the one we’re going through now is particularly tough, I’m ready to accept it.”
The Spaniard currently sits 16th in the Drivers’ Standings, having last scored points at the Canadian Grand Prix in Montreal.
Sainz’s willingness to roll up his sleeves rather than chase immediate success speaks volumes about his character, but Williams must repay that loyalty with performance if they expect to keep a driver of his caliber around for the long haul.
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