There was some debate between the older and younger Carlos Sainz regarding which option would be the best direction for Carlos Sainz JR. In the end, the younger Sainz listened to himself and reportedly did not regret the decision.
Moreover, even Alpine would have given him an opportunity, yet he seemingly chose the weakest option among them all:
"My dream of signing with Red Bull or possibly Mercedes did not come true. After that, I had to choose among Audi, Alpine, and Williams. After visiting the teams and the factories, talking to everyone, I immediately had a feeling that whispered to me: go to Williams, they want to achieve a brighter future. When not only my mind but also my heart said this, I knew they would be my path. I know my father had a great time with Audi at the Dakar Rally, has a very good relationship with them, and wanted me to sign with them, but I hope he forgives me for not choosing them. I want to prove to him that I made the right decision! When I first got into their car last year, I immediately felt that they are full of enthusiasm, motivation, and want to return to the front of the field. Alongside that, the car was also performing well, our test this year went excellently, and the developments are working. I don't know how much all this will be enough, how far we will be from the leading pack, but I trust that we will continuously improve as a team, and eventually, the time will come when we become competitive." - Carlos Sainz stated hopefully.
Photo: XPB Images / Planet F1
