Sainz minimizes the significance of even 'top five' finishes in '25.

      Carlos Sainz has stated that he does not expect to finish in the "top five" at the upcoming season-opening Australian GP later this month. Following the only three days of official winter testing in Bahrain last week, the former Ferrari driver led the overall combined times driving his 2025 Williams. However, Sainz, 30, suggested that he was likely running on very low fuel at that point.

      "I don’t think we can draw any conclusions from the times," he told Marca sports newspaper, "because, as you know, with these cars, times can vary by five seconds slower or faster depending on the fuel load and engine settings. So it’s uncertain where we stand, but it does seem that the car has performed well and has improved compared to last year," Sainz added.

      He also admitted that the car's setup wasn't quite right. "In the end, there’s not enough time in a day and a half—or for me, a day and a quarter—to try out half of what I wanted to test," Sainz said. "I still have many questions regarding the setup. But that’s how it is; we have to head into the first races without knowing where the final two tenths of the car are."

      When asked about his goals for Melbourne, the Spaniard said: "Points. I believe scoring points should be our aim at the start of the season. I mentioned that during the car's presentation. I think expecting anything more is unrealistic. The car has some strong aspects, and I’m confident it has significant advantages, but it also has its weaknesses, just like any other car I’ve driven in my past."

      "I’m certain there have been some positive surprises, as well as negative ones, which is typical. But adapting to the car in such a short time seems impossible. It seems absurd to me that we only had a day and a half of testing. However, looking at the midfield from last year, we weren’t far off—a Haas, a Williams—in some qualifications; we were fairly close at times. My contributions usually come more in race pace, as that’s when the gaps widen and degradation increases, and that’s where I believe I can offer more assistance to the team in improving."

      "But I’m sure that you won’t see me on the podium or in the top five this year, so don’t get too excited," Sainz smiled. "But at least know that I haven’t come to Williams just to kill time and let the years pass."

      Referring to his notable lap time, he concluded: "At least it shows people that I’m committed—we’re going for it."