Carlos Sainz has confessed that his father is "still disappointed" he declined Audi's proposal for 2025 and beyond after leaving Ferrari.
The 30-year-old opted instead for Williams, another midfield outfit that caught attention at the Bahrain pre-season test, where Sainz posted the fastest overall time.
"This was a surprise for us too," Sainz said with a smile. "But the joy in the team is even more important than the fastest time. Everyone is working even harder now. We are going into Australia with some hope," added the four-time grand prix winner.
Yet Sainz's choice to join Williams went against the counsel of his renowned father, Carlos Sainz senior.
The 62-year-old, a former world rally champion, enjoyed significant success with Audi at the Dakar Rally, clinching victory just last year.
"My father is still disappointed that I didn't accept the great offer from Audi," Sainz told Blick newspaper.
"After my dream of moving to Red Bull or Mercedes ended, I had to choose between Audi, Alpine, and Williams. After the factory visits and discussions, my gut feeling immediately told me to go to Williams. They want a better future.
"And when my heart also said yes, the decision was made. Now I hope that my father, who had great times with Audi, will soon be happy that I chose Williams."
Sauber-Audi's F1 boss Mattia Binotto admits that his 2025 drivers, Nico Hulkenberg and Gabriel Bortoleto, are unlikely to trouble the points in Melbourne.
"If everything goes as we expect, the two McLarens, Ferraris, Red Bulls, and Mercedes, as well as Sainz and (Pierre) Gasly, will secure the ten points-scoring positions," the Italian forecasted.
Sauber endured a dismal 2024, finishing rock bottom—just one spot below Williams.
"A quick points-scoring result would certainly help our team," Binotto said.
Meanwhile, former F1 chief Bernie Ecclestone predicts Sainz will make a big mark at Williams.
"Ferrari will regret letting him go," the 94-year-old told Blick.
"Carlos is already showing his worth at Williams. It was also like this in my time - give a team with a mediocre car one of the top five drivers in the sport, and you'll experience a surprise."
