P1racenews AI automatic summary:
It has been a long wait for a podium for Carlos Sainz, but boy, did he enjoy this one!
Carlos Sainz expressed that his first podium for Williams in the Azerbaijan Grand Prix was more satisfying than his first in Formula 1, achieved when he finished third. Coming from a strong qualifying performance at the Baku Street Circuit, Sainz maintained composure amidst chaos to secure the podium, showcasing flawless driving that marked his first podium since his last race with Ferrari in Abu Dhabi the previous season. This success concluded a lackluster season for Williams, where Sainz had garnered only 16 points in 16 races prior to earning 15 from this standout performance. The team had not seen a podium in a full Grand Prix since Lance Stroll’s third-place finish in Azerbaijan eight years ago. Sainz credited the collective effort of the team, highlighting their progress, hard work, and ability to deliver exceptional results when all elements align perfectly. He emphasized the importance of perseverance, self-belief, and trust in the team and processes, as well as the valuable life lesson that difficult moments can pave the way for unexpected triumphs.
