Sainz chooses Williams rejecting Alpine's aggressive pursuit

Carlos Sainz's decision to join Williams from 2025 has put an end to months of speculation, revealing the intense competition among teams to secure the Spaniard's signature.

Despite a strong push from Alpine, led by Flavio Briatore, Sainz ultimately chose to align his future with the Grove-based outfit.

Alpine's aggressive courtship

According to Formula 1 correspondent Lawrence Barretto, Alpine pursued Sainz "very hard," with Briatore playing a pivotal role in the team's efforts.

The former Renault team boss, now serving as executive advisor to Renault CEO Luca de Meo, reportedly went to great lengths to entice Sainz back to Enstone.

"Alpine chased Sainz very hard, with new executive director Flavio Briatore upping the ante after joining and doing everything he could to tempt the Spaniard back to Enstone,"

Barretto revealed. The journalist added that Briatore even dangled

"the carrot of a potential Mercedes engine deal"

as part of their pitch.

The Mercedes engine factor

The potential switch to Mercedes power units for Alpine adds an intriguing dimension to their pursuit of Sainz.

With Renault's future as a Formula 1 engine manufacturer uncertain, the prospect of Alpine transitioning from a works team to a customer outfit using Mercedes engines from 2026 was seen as a compelling selling point.

This strategic move could have aligned Alpine more closely with the current technical regulations' front-runners, potentially offering Sainz a competitive package for the future.

However, the team's recent struggles and organizational instability may have dampened its appeal.

Williams' winning pitch

Despite Alpine's aggressive approach, Sainz ultimately chose Williams, signing a multi-year deal that extends through 2026 with options for further extension.

The decision reflects Sainz's confidence in Williams' long-term potential and the team's commitment to returning to the front of the grid.

Explaining his choice, Sainz said,

"I am fully confident that Williams is the right place for me to continue my F1 journey and I am extremely proud of joining such a historic and successful team, where many of my childhood heroes drove in the past and made their mark on our sport."

The Spaniard emphasized the team's heritage and his belief in their ability to reclaim past glories.

"The ultimate goal of bringing Williams back to where it belongs, at the front of the grid, is a challenge that I embrace with excitement and positivity,"

he added.