Carlos Sainz Claims First Williams Podium, Beats Hamilton at 2025 Azerbaijan GP

Carlos Sainz secured his first podium with Williams by finishing third at the 2025 Azerbaijan Grand Prix, marking a significant milestone in his first season with the team. After a strong qualifying performance where he secured second on the grid behind Max Verstappen, Sainz maintained his position through the race despite pressure from competitors, helping Williams to their first podium in the Azerbaijan GP since 2017. His teammate Alex Albon had outscored him earlier in the season, but improvements in tyre temperature management and Sainz's skill contributed to this breakthrough result. The podium finish stands out as Williams holds fifth in the constructors' championship, aiming to build on this momentum with upcoming races like Las Vegas as potential opportunities for further success. Despite comparisons with Lewis Hamilton, who replaced Sainz at Ferrari and has yet to score a podium with his new team, Sainz remains focused solely on Williams' progress. Additionally, a lighthearted moment after the race saw Sainz and fellow racer Charles Leclerc taking an unexpected road trip to Monaco due to flight disruptions, highlighting the camaraderie among drivers.