Carlos Sainz has expressed that it would be the “proudest moment” of his Formula 1 career should he help guide Williams back into a place where he can be on the podium.
Having been told he would lose his place at Ferrari to Lewis Hamilton before last season even began, Sainz chose Williams among his available options on a multi-term deal.
The Spaniard’s new venture has seen him replicate Nigel Mansell and Alain Prost in representing F1’s three most decorated teams: McLaren, Ferrari and now Williams.
However, Williams hasn’t won a single race since 2012 and the team’s title drought stretches back even longer to 1997 amid a sharp downturn over the last two decades.
But the Grove-based squad is undergoing a rebuild under team boss James Vowles as it endeavours to return to the sharp end once new regulations are introduced next season.
Sainz, a four-time F1 race winner with Ferrari, has claimed that standing on the podium rostrum in Williams colours would eclipse his previous accolades in the sport.
“I think if you would have asked me when I was 10 years old and I started to fall in love with Formula 1, which teams you would have loved to drive one day, I would have definitely picked those three,” Sainz told media including Motorsport Week as Williams launched the FW47.
“I’m in my 10th year in Formula 1 and I’m joining Williams in a very important moment where it’s going through some key changes in its history and nothing would make me happier or more proud, it would definitely be the proudest moment of my career if one day I can be on a podium with this team.”
Sainz ‘motivated’ by Williams ambition
Sainz is not dwelling on his Ferrari departure consigning him to a move down the grid, insisting that he is relishing the chance to be an integral part in reviving a sleeping giant.
“I want to help that in that process, help that historical team,” he continued.
“I think it’s the second most successful team in Formula 1 and being part of that process and being part of that ride on my way back to the top of Formula 1 is what motivates me and what I think you guys can tell.”
Sainz believes the manner in which Williams has been receptive to his vast experience in the series will enable him to operate at his best when the campaign begins next month.
“I’m happy, I feel supported by this team and I think that’s hopefully going to bring the best version,” he concluded.
READ MORE – James Vowles highlights initial impact Carlos Sainz has had at Williams
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