Carlos Sainz: This season is one of those that toughens character.

      At the press conference on Thursday, Carlos Sainz spoke with a sad voice about Williams' results this season…

      Carlos Sainz: “I have always been very open and straightforward, saying that in 2025 we exceeded expectations, that the results were better than I anticipated when signing the contract in 2024. We had a very good car, only three to four tenths off pole time, with excellent balance.

      I hoped that this year we could maintain the same level or make a small step forward, but now everything is exactly the opposite. Our team is now further from the leaders than in 2025.

      This season is one of those that toughens character. It has opened our eyes to how much work lies ahead if we ever want to compete with the top teams.

      Unfortunately, so far it has been a disappointing year. As a result, my expectations, or rather the timeline for when I can win a race again, have shifted by a year or two. I had certain plans, specific timelines in which I was ready to bring the team back to winning positions, and I knew how long I was willing to wait to win again. In the end, this period will clearly last longer than I expected.

      Nevertheless, I see the investments the team is making in the future. This still gives me confidence that we are moving in the right direction. It’s just that this year’s car did not meet our expectations.”