In the 2025 Bahrain Grand Prix, Carlos Sainz Jr.’s challenging start to the season with Williams Racing continued, as he failed to score points for the third time in four races. This leaves him with just one point in the Drivers’ Championship, in stark contrast to his teammate Alexander Albon, who has accumulated 18 points and sits eighth in the standings.
A Promising Start Undone by Misfortune
Sainz began the weekend on a positive note, qualifying eighth and demonstrating competitive pace. However, his race unraveled during an overtaking attempt on Yuki Tsunoda on lap 31. Although Sainz successfully passed Tsunoda, the Red Bull driver lost control and collided with Sainz’s Williams, causing significant damage to the sidepod and resulting in a substantial loss of aerodynamic performance.
The situation worsened during the subsequent safety car restart. Sainz locked up his brakes and forced Andrea Kimi Antonelli off the track, an incident that earned him a ten-second penalty. Ultimately, the team decided to retire the car due to the extensive damage.
Albon’s Steady Performance
Meanwhile, Alexander Albon continued to deliver consistent results. Despite starting 15th on the grid, he managed to finish 12th, narrowly missing out on points. Albon’s steady accumulation of points has been a bright spot for Williams, highlighting the potential of the FW47 when in capable hands.
Looking Ahead
Despite the setbacks, Williams team principal James Vowles remains optimistic about Sainz’s contributions. He praised Sainz for exceeding expectations since joining the team, emphasizing his role in car development and strategic input . As the season progresses, Williams will aim to capitalize on both drivers’ strengths to improve their standing in the Constructors’ Championship.
The upcoming races will be crucial for Sainz to regain momentum and for Williams to solidify their position in the midfield battle. With both drivers showing potential, the team remains hopeful for a turnaround in fortunes.