AUSTIN, Texas

Carlos Sainz Jr. understands the significance of a team bouncing back in Formula 1.

After transferring from Ferrari to Williams for the 2025 season, Sainz secured his first podium with his new team at the Azerbaijan Grand Prix, finishing third behind Max Verstappen and George Russell. This marked Williams’ first podium since the canceled 2021 Belgian Grand Prix, and their first race podium since Lance Stroll’s third-place finish at the same Azerbaijan event.

This achievement underscored the team’s ongoing efforts to climb the rankings, especially after finishing ninth the previous season.

However, Sainz faced challenges during the Singapore GP, where both he and teammate Alexander Albon were disqualified post-qualifying due to their cars not meeting inspection standards.

Despite starting from the back of the grid, Sainz fought through the pack to finish in tenth place, securing the last points available.

He shared his thoughts with the media on Thursday, emphasizing the importance of his comeback for the F1 team.

“We had two strong races, one on Saturday and one on Sunday,” Sainz said during an event at the Williams Hospitality Space at the Circuit of the Americas.

“Unfortunately, Saturday in Singapore didn’t unfold as expected. But I suppose there will be rough Saturdays throughout the season. I think it’s essential to recover well and maintain a history of bouncing back.”

“Both the team and I responded really well to that setback, showcasing solid momentum, strategy, and execution on Sunday,” he added. “That’s definitely a positive. Achieving a podium in Baku boosts confidence and demonstrates a solid ability to bounce back, much like what we did on Sunday.”

As previously mentioned, Williams is on the rise. The team currently holds the sixth position in the Constructors’ Championship standings, and with six race weekends left, they are determined to reclaim their former glory.

This marks a significant return, building on the smaller rebound Sainz experienced in Singapore weeks earlier.

Sainz recognizes the gravity of this situation.