Carlos Sainzâs Williams extension could include Verstappen-style exit clause

Carlos Sainz edges closer to Williams deal
Carlos Sainz appears set to remain with Williams, marking a significant shift in the speculation surrounding his Formula 1 future. Reports earlier in the season suggested that the Spaniard was frustrated by the teamâs performance during the first half of 2026 and could leave at the end of the campaign.
That outlook has now changed. Sainz is reportedly close to agreeing a new one-year contract with Williams for 2027, with his management team giving the Oxfordshire-based outfit its exclusive attention during the summer break. His objective for the second half of 2026 was to help turn the teamâs fortunes around, but the latest reports suggest he could instead commit to Williamsâ focus on 2027.

The move would also reshape a driver-market story that has included possible interest from other teams. Carlos Sainzâs potential Red Bull route could already be delayed until 2028, making a short-term Williams agreement a potentially important part of his planning.
Exit protection remains central to negotiations
A new Williams contract would not necessarily mean Sainz is committed to seeing it through to the end of 2027. According to Marca, the driverâs representatives are seeking an exit clause, or another contractual mechanism, that would allow him to leave if a stronger opportunity emerged and Williamsâ performance failed to improve.

The wording is reportedly inspired by the principle of Max Verstappenâs Red Bull exit clause, although there is no suggestion that Sainzâs agreement would operate in exactly the same way. The key point is that the Spaniardâs camp wants flexibility while confidence in Williamsâ competitive progress remains incomplete.
That protection could come at a considerable cost for Sainz. Marca has also reported that the previously circulated ÂŁ25.7 million (âŹ30 million) salary figure is unlikely to be accurate. The number may have been leaked by Sainzâs team as leverage against his current ÂŁ9.8 million (âŹ13 million) deal, but a one-year extension with a possible release mechanism would make such a commitment a significant risk for Williams.
A pay rise, but not the rumoured figure
Williams is reportedly prepared to offer Sainz a Ferrari-level salary, and he is expected to receive an increase. However, the teamâs financial difficulties and the driverâs reluctance to make a long-term commitment are likely to limit the final amount.
If Sainz stays, the emerging picture is clear: Williams may retain an experienced driver, but only on terms that preserve his future options. The agreement is expected to be worth less than Sainz and his management initially hoped.
