Johnny Herbert: Carlos Sainz Would've Been a Title Contender in a McLaren

Former FIA steward Johnny Herbert has made a bold claim, stating that Carlos Sainz would have been a 2024 World Championship contender had he been driving for McLaren. This assertion comes after Sainz's impressive late-season surge with Williams, where he secured two podiums and demonstrated his class. Herbert believes Sainz's understated professionalism and strong work ethic make him a genuine title threat in competitive machinery.

Why it matters:

Sainz's performance at Williams, often in an uncompetitive car, has solidified his reputation as a top-tier driver capable of challenging for wins. Herbert's comments validate Sainz's talent and place him firmly in the same conversation as the sport's elite. For Williams, it highlights the potential of their 2025 package, suggesting that with a significant power unit advantage, they could be in a position to fight for victories with a driver of Sainz's caliber.

The details:

• Verstappen Comparison: Herbert drew a parallel between Sainz and Max Verstappen in terms of ability, but highlighted their contrasting personalities. He described Sainz as someone who "flies a little bit more under the radar" and "gets on with the job," rather than being as "in-your-face" as Verstappen.
• Strong Finish: Despite a difficult start to his Williams career, Sainz found his rhythm in the second half of the season. His upward trajectory culminated in two podium finishes, boosting team morale and proving his adaptability.
• Professional Work Ethic: The former steward praised Sainz's "very good work ethic," drawing a comparison to his father, a two-time World Rally Champion. Herbert noted this trait is "very important within a team structure."
• Williams' 2025 Hope: The Grove-based team is optimistic for next season, largely due to a widely rumored significant advantage from the new Mercedes power unit. This echoes the 2014 season, when a dominant Mercedes engine instantly propelled Williams to the front of the grid.

Looking Ahead:

With the 2025 regulations reset and a potent Mercedes engine on the horizon, Sainz's move to Williams could prove far more significant than initially anticipated. If the team can deliver a competitive chassis to complement the power unit, Herbert's belief that Sainz is a worthy world championship contender could be put to the test. All eyes will be on the Grove-based team to see if they can translate this potential into a genuine threat to the established frontrunners.