Starting from 2025, Alexander Albon will be joined by Carlos Sainz. The Spaniard signed a two-year contract with Williams on Monday. Over the past few months, Sainz has been searching for a ‘championship-worthy’ team. However, Albon wants to emphasize that he should not expect too much. Even with the new regulations of 2026, it’s not guaranteed that Williams will be leading the pack.
Several drivers – including Carlos Sainz – will have their contract choices influenced by the new 2026 regulations. The cards will be reshuffled at that time due to rigorous changes in the FIA’s rules. In short, the regulations will ensure that Formula 1 cars become smaller and have more active aerodynamics. This offers opportunities for a team like Williams, which can make big leaps in the rankings all at once.
Keeping Both Feet on the Ground
Alex Albon believes that the Grove team needs to remain ‘realistic’ and avoid setting expectations too high – claiming that he and Sainz will be fighting for a podium position might be a bit too ambitious. “I think it would be optimistic to say that we will be leading in 2026,” Albon recently stated. “Williams needs to be realistic and keep both feet on the ground. It’s especially important that we focus on the journey we need to take to make this team competitive again.”
Albon previously admitted that he welcomes the arrival of Sainz. In the run-up to the Spanish GP, he was already asked about a collaboration with the smooth operator. “I get along with him as well as with all the other drivers,” Albon said about his relationship with Sainz. “Looking at his experience and knowledge, he is definitely an asset, but to be honest, it doesn’t matter much to me.”
