Carlos Sainz has signed a new multi-year contract to remain at Williams beyond his current deal, which was due to expire at the end of this season. The move underlines the Spaniard's commitment to the team's rebuilding project despite a disappointing 2026 campaign, following an encouraging first season in 2025 after leaving Ferrari.

Sainz, 31, joined Williams in 2025, turning down the chance to lead Audi's new F1 project, and claimed two podiums in his debut season with the team. However, Williams have regressed in 2026, sitting ninth of 11 teams at the halfway point after finishing fifth in last year's constructors' championship, with team principal James Vowles citing the strain of building an all-new car under revised regulations. The announcement follows team-mate Alex Albon's own new one-year deal for 2027, with Vowles praising Sainz as a "leader" of the team both on track and behind the scenes.