Herbert: Does Sainz think Newey will be joining Williams?

The future of legendary F1 designer has been under speculation ever since it was revealed that he would be leaving Red Bull Racing, with many teams rumored to be courting him hoping to win his signature, Ferrari and Aston Martin to name a couple.

However, Williams boss James Vowles hinted that he is also talking to Newey, hoping to bring the designer back to the team he worked for between 1991 and 1996, a collaboration that yielded four F1 Constructors' Titles and three Drivers' Crowns.

Vowles has been vocal about his plans to bring Williams back to the front of the grid, and insisted having Sainz on board was a milestone in this plan.

Speaking to TopOffShoreSportsBooks.com, Herbert commented on the news of Sainz joining Williams, he said: "Carlos Sainz is one of the most talented drivers on the grid. He should have been taken by one of the big teams but it's a brilliant signing for Williams!

"It's an exciting time for Williams with Dorilton Ventures taking over the team back in 2020. James Vowles is on-board and Alex Albon has turned around his difficult time he had at Red Bull with some fantastic races this season.

"James Vowles has been a fantastic addition to the team," Herbert went on. "He has the understanding of what Williams needs and he knew very well that they needed a top driver. They've got one in Alex but Carlos is going to be a very strong addition to the future of this team.

"This is something that has surprised me. All the discussions of Carlos Sainz from Mercedes to Audi to Alpine, so many teams have been talking about Carlos. These teams needed Carlos on their books for crying out loud!" he claimed.

However Herbert, a three-time F1 grand prix winner, pondered what convinced Sainz to join Williams, who are currently struggling at the lower end of the grid and said: "Drivers have to be told what the plan is for the future of the team and the one man that has been talked about a lot is Adrian Newey.

"Does Carlos think that Adrian Newey will be joining the team? That would be a brilliant coup for Williams!" the 60-year-old mused.

Despite showing signs of improvement, Williams still have a long way to go before returning to the winners' circle, but Herbert believes Sainz will fit right in.

He explained: "It's wonderful that Williams have been getting stronger over the last couple of years and this is perfect for Carlos. I'm so happy he's found himself a place where he'll feel at home. Drivers need to have a feel and support around them.

"This will help him grow with Williams with the investment that will be coming their way and the changes that need to happen at Williams Racing as well. I'm excited that he's signed for Williams. It's disappointing that other teams didn't take him up but he's joining a team with a wonderful history

"This could be their chance to win Grands Prix and work their way to becoming future Constructors winners," an optimistic Herbert concluded.