Carlos Sainz may have to stick it out with Williams even if he wants to leave, according to former Formula 1 racer Juan Pablo Montoya, who believes there are no significant opportunities elsewhere for the Spaniard.
Sainz's options limited
Montoya told Express Sport, via Betpack: "There's nowhere else he can go. That is the tough reality of it for him. In his position he needs to make the most of the fact that Williams really wants him and get the best deal he can out of them and commit to it. He needs to help ensure the right people are in the right places and that he has more say in what's going on."
Sainz rejected offers from Audi and Alpine in 2024 to join Williams, after losing his Ferrari seat to Lewis Hamilton. Last year, Williams were clearly the top midfield team, but they have not adapted well to the 2026 regulations.
Williams' struggles
Williams have scored just 11 points across the first half of the season, leaving them ninth in the constructors' standings, above only Aston Martin and newcomers Cadillac. Aston Martin waited to upgrade their car until the last race before the summer break, at which point they became faster than Williams.
The situation has frustrated both Sainz and Alex Albon, but Sainz has been the most vocal about his future. He said he would speak with team principal James Vowles and his own personal team before making a decision.
Potential destinations
Audi has been touted as a potential destination, but sources indicate they are likely to continue with Nico Hulkenberg and Gabriel Bortoleto. Alpine has a potential vacancy with Franco Colapinto not yet secured for 2026, but boss Flavio Briatore has not shown public interest.
Aston Martin could also be a target, should Fernando Alonso decide this year is his last on the grid. The 45-year-old has said he is likely to decide over the summer break whether to continue racing.
