Former Formula 1 driver Johnny Herbert is convinced that Carlos Sainz can compete for world titles. The Spaniard made an impression during his first season with Williams, where he immediately secured two podium finishes. Herbert praises Sainz’s work ethic, among other things, and is certain: ‘If you had put him in a McLaren, he would have fought for the championship’.
Carlos Sainz has completed his first season as a Williams driver. The Spaniard managed to reach the podium twice, and helped his new team finish the year in fifth place in the constructors’ championship. According to Johnny Herbert, the Madrid-born driver showcased his skills well this season.
“Carlos seems to be a great asset with all the experience he has gained at Ferrari recently,” Herbert analyzes in an interview with a betting website. “For example, we saw how good he was compared to Charles Leclerc. It took him some time to feel comfortable at Williams and with the car this year, but in the second half of the season, he really came alive.”
Under the Radar
Herbert, a Formula 1 driver himself from 1989 to 2000, believes that Sainz could be a serious title contender if he were allowed to compete in a more competitive car. “If they could have given him the car he needs – if you had put him in a McLaren, for example – he would have fought for the world championship,” the former steward is convinced. “He is someone who flies a bit more under the radar, because he is not as conspicuous a driver as, for example, Max Verstappen.”
“He just stoically continues with his work, just like his father,” Herbert continues his praise for the Spaniard. “He has a very good work ethic, and that work ethic is very important within a team structure. I hope he gets a real chance to step into a car that gives him that chance at the world title, because I think he would achieve that in a very professional manner.” Sainz has a multi-year contract with Williams, which is definitely valid until at least the end of 2026.
