Spanish Driver Carlos Sainz Analyzes Wet-Condition Crash at Australian GP and Plans for Improvement

In the challenging wet conditions of the opening race of the 2025 Formula 1 season, the Australian Grand Prix, Carlos Sainz experienced a crash that left him reflecting on his performance. Ahead of the Chinese Grand Prix, Sainz shared insights into the data analysis and his feelings following the incident, expressing optimism about overcoming the steep learning curve he faces with Williams.

Analyzing the Crash: A Steep Learning Curve in Formula 1

The Grand Prix began on a wet and slippery street circuit, claiming several drivers, including Sainz. Among three drivers who failed to complete the opening lap, Sainz lost control of his FW47 on the final turn under the safety car. “After the race, I was disappointed,” Sainz explained, “but as soon as I opened my laptop and analyzed the data, I quickly understood what happened.”

For Sainz, the incident underscores the importance of attention to detail in Formula 1. “It shows how a good weekend can turn into a bad one in this sport,” he said. “When the last 1-5% things you don’t know about a Formula 1 car can catch you out, it just goes to show that it’s the small stuff that can sometimes bite you.”

Adapting to a New Powertrain: A Learning Process for Sainz

After leaving Ferrari, Sainz is adapting to the Mercedes powertrain that powers his Grove machinery. He was asked about the differences and how he’s coping with only pre-season testing under his belt. “It takes time,” Sainz acknowledged. “Examples like this [the crash] help me learn from such situations and prepare for future races.”

In Bahrain, Sainz aims to test the situation he encountered in Australia and improve his performance. “You’re never gonna be on a wet track with cold intermediate tyres under safety car conditions,” he said. “But by giving myself more races to go through this steep learning curve, I can learn from these situations and ensure I don’t make the same mistake again.”

Despite the challenges ahead, Sainz is looking forward to a dry race weekend in Shanghai. However, with only one practice session to accustom himself to the car in these conditions, it will be anything but easy.