Sainz casts verdict after claiming surprise podium in Qatar GP
Carlos Sainz expressed his excitement over Williams’ strong performance after claiming a podium finish at the Qatar Grand Prix.
“I’m so happy, so proud of the whole team and of what we’ve achieved today.”- Carlos Sainz
The Spanish driver, who had qualified in seventh place, admitted he expected the weekend to be one of the most challenging of the year but was thrilled with his third-place finish.
“I’m so happy, so proud of the whole team and of what we’ve achieved today. We came into this weekend thinking it was going to be the most difficult of the year, and suddenly we came out with a podium,” he said during his post-race reaction.
He also praised Williams for their flawless execution on race day, from pace to strategy.
“We nailed the race pace. I was super quick—much quicker than expected. We nailed the strategy, the tyre management, the start, the defending, and overall race management—and that brought us an unexpected podium, so I couldn’t be more proud," he added.
Sainz highlighted how the team maximised the few opportunities available in the race.
“We got everything right today. We had a tough first half of the season when things didn’t come together, but we improved in so many areas over the year. Today, there were a few opportunities out there to grab, and we seized every single one by executing a perfect race.”
He concluded by reflecting on his elation at securing the podium.
“I’m over the moon with this podium because I absolutely didn’t expect it,” he concluded.
The podium for Sainz marked his third since his move to the Williams team, after claim third place in the race in Azerbaijan and another third place in the third place in US Grand Prix Sprint.
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