'Sainz linked with Audi switch after disappointing Williams season'

According to journalist Joe Saward, the Spaniard could consider leaving Williams at the end of the season as a potential replacement for Hulkenberg at Audi. The German manufacturer also shares a long-standing association with Sainz through his father Carlos Sainz Snr, a multiple World Rally champion and four-time Dakar winner.

Sainz headed into his second season with Williams off the back of a promising debut campaign, highlighted by two podium finishes. With the arrival of the new regulations, 2026 was expected to offer his best opportunity to fight consistently at the front once again.

Instead, the British team has emerged as one of the biggest disappointments of the season so far, with the FW48 struggling to match the pace of the frontrunners and overweight.

After nine races, the Spaniard has scored just six points, only one more than his teammate, with Williams sitting eighth in the constructors' standings ahead of only Audi, Aston Martin and Cadillac. Two of those three are new Formula 1 entrants, while Adrian Newey's team has endured significant technical struggles.

GPblog previously reported that Aston Martin could approach Williams to explore a move for either Sainz or Albon should Fernando Alonso decide to retire from Formula 1 at the end of the season.

Speaking to GPblog recently, Sainz made it clear that his full focus remains on helping Williams improve its current situation. The Spaniard explained that he is heavily involved in the team's development programme, with an intensive schedule of simulator work and meetings, and has even asked those around him to avoid distracting him with discussions about his future until the summer break.

He added that only once the summer shutdown arrives will he begin evaluating his options. At the same time, he stressed that Williams is still his priority and reiterated his belief in the team's long-term project, making it clear that his intention is to continue with the Grove-based outfit while focusing on improving its on-track performance.