Sainz Names the Fastest Driver in Formula 1
Carlos Sainz has shared his opinion on who he considers the fastest Formula 1 drivers of the 2025 season.
In an interview with the Spanish radio station Cope, the Williams driver offered his perspective on the current balance of power in the paddock, naming three standout competitors in terms of speed:
“Over a single lap, in my view, the fastest driver is Charles Leclerc. However, Lando Norris is very close there’s almost no difference between them.When it comes to race pace, though, Max Verstappen is undoubtedly the quickest.”
When asked who would come out on top if all the drivers were competing in identical cars, Sainz avoided giving a direct answer and emphasized that performance depends heavily on the machinery:
“It all depends on the car we are driving. If it’s a Red Bull, then obviously Max would be the fastest. In the case of Mercedes, it would be very difficult to beat George Russell, as he feels extremely comfortable in that car. And if everyone were driving a Williams, I would back Alex Albon and myself. It all comes down to how well each driver can unlock the potential of their car.”
