Sainz ends 10-race points drought as Williams' Baku upgrade debuts – but warns 'we're going to need more to fight regularly'

Carlos Sainz and Alex Albon have delivered a mixed verdict on Williams' major upgrade package after its race debut at the Azerbaijan Grand Prix, with both drivers concluding that while the new parts are a step in the right direction, the Grove-based outfit "need more" if they are to fight for points on a regular basis.

Williams arrived in Baku having endured a difficult 2026 campaign, hampered by an overweight car and a series of additional performance issues — problems that prompted the team's decision to focus its resources on a significant package introduced at the Azerbaijan Grand Prix.

Sainz ends 10-race points drought but left with mixed feelings

The upgrade appeared to have an immediate impact on Saturday, with Sainz securing Williams' first Q3 appearance of the year. His weekend then took a frustrating turn when he was handed a five-place grid penalty for failing to slow for yellow flags, dropping him to 14th on the grid for Sunday's race.

Aided by retirements for drivers further ahead, the Spaniard recovered to finish 10th and add a point to Williams' tally — his first score in 10 rounds — although he admitted to mixed emotions after the penalty cost him a stronger result.

"I think [it's] what we deserved this weekend, to get a point for the team after the effort of the upgrade and a great Qualifying yesterday. Some good management there at the end for the last 10-15 laps, getting myself back into contention."

"I'm very disappointed after what happened yesterday, the way that was managed, the way that was handled. I was very depressed, let's say, going into today. I managed to get a point for the team which was the target," Sainz explained.

Despite the frustration, Sainz sees reason for optimism about the direction of the team — but insists the package alone will not be enough to turn Williams into regular points contenders.

"[There's] optimism in terms of I think the package is going to allow us to get back into positions where we can have some fun and fight with the others. The reality is that to get points, we're still going to need each other's help or some people's help. I think the package is good to see, but after what I saw today, I think we're going to need more if we want to fight for points regularly."

Albon rues "unusual" crash but encouraged by early signs

For team mate Albon, Baku is a weekend to move on from quickly. The Williams driver locked up and crashed into the wall, triggering a Safety Car that ultimately led to restart chaos which eliminated multiple drivers — a mistake he was quick to own up to.

"Unusual crash, unusual place. I've not fully understood – maybe I braked a little later than the last lap, had a tailwind. We don't like that corner as well, so we generally front-lock there. My fault, but it happens."

Albon was nonetheless satisfied with the early performance of the upgrades, which included a new floor and adjustments to the rear of the car, but agreed with Sainz that further improvements are still required.

"We probably need a bit more aero in the car. Actually, this car was not bad. This track suited us, our pace was actually quite good throughout the race. In the two medium speed corners of the track – Turn 1 and the last corner – we were slow, which is going to make the rest of the year difficult."

With the new package now on the car, Williams' focus shifts to building on the encouraging signs from Baku — and, in the words of both drivers, finding more performance if qualifying promise is to be converted into consistent points finishes.