James Vowles says Carlos Sainz could become a successful F1 team principal in the future

TL;DR

James Vowles believes Carlos Sainz has the potential to become a successful F1 team principal in the future, citing his strong leadership qualities. Many F1 drivers transition to management roles due to their understanding of racing operations.

Key points

James Vowles praises Carlos Sainz's leadership qualities
F1 drivers often move into team management roles
Sir Jack Brabham is a notable example of success in both driving and management

Mentioned in this story

Carlos SainzJames Vowles

Formula 1

Photo by Bryn Lennon/Getty Images

James Vowles sees a bright future for Carlos Sainz as a team principal, praising the Ferrari driver’s leadership qualities.

It’s not unusual for F1 drivers to move into team management roles later in their careers, given how well they understand the day-to-day operations and the inner workings of a racing outfit.

While none of today’s team principals reached the top of the sport as drivers, plenty have spent time behind the wheel before moving into leadership. Sir Jack Brabham stands alone in having achieved success in both roles. During his racing career, he launched his own F1 team and led it to back-to-back constructors’ championships in 1966 and 1967.

James Vowles predicts Carlos Sainz’s F1 future

Speaking with Diario AS, Vowles highlighted Sainz’s influence within Williams and pointed to the role he plays in shaping the team’s environment at Grove.

“Carlos is an incredible guy; he never dwells on mistakes, he doesn’t attack, and he doesn’t place blame. In my opinion, the true test of a leader isn’t when things are going well, but when they aren’t. It’s in those moments that you learn so much more,” he said.

He went on to suggest that Sainz has the qualities needed for the job, even if such a move is still some way off given where Sainz is in his driving career.

“Even if he doesn’t want to admit it, I’d give him my job,” Vowles said. “He’s absolutely fantastic and very good at leading a team. I think he has all the potential for it, without a doubt. There’s a bit of help we need to give him, but he has the ability to make it happen.”

Sainz himself replied by saying: “I’ve been thinking about it, about whether I’d like a role like that. I don’t know, I don’t know where I’ll be in life.”

Carlos Sainz’s future with Williams under question after slow 2026 start

Following an impressive debut season with Williams that included two podium finishes, Sainz has grown frustrated with the team’s sluggish start to the 2026 campaign.

Q&A

What qualities make Carlos Sainz a potential F1 team principal?

James Vowles highlights Sainz's leadership qualities as a key factor in his potential success as a team principal.

Have any F1 drivers successfully transitioned to team management?

Yes, while none of today's team principals reached the top as drivers, many have moved into management roles, with Sir Jack Brabham being a notable example of success in both areas.

What is the significance of drivers becoming team principals in F1?

Drivers transitioning to team principals can leverage their racing experience to improve team operations and strategy, enhancing the overall performance of the team.