Carlos Sainz, the Williams F1 driver, took a break from his challenging 2025 season to unwind on a boating trip with his girlfriend Rebecca Donaldson and his father, Carlos Sainz Sr. This moment away from the racetrack comes as Sainz aims to regain form after a difficult start with the Grove-based team.
The Spanish driver has struggled in the first 14 races and three sprint events of this year, falling well behind his teammate Alex Albon in performance. Despite the ongoing difficulties, Sainz has received strong support from his loved ones, notably his girlfriend Donaldson, who has been frequently spotted at races and team events.
Donaldson, a Scottish model who has been dating Sainz since 2023, recently appeared on social media photos enjoying a leisurely boat outing alongside the driver and his father. She was seen wearing a white bikini as the trio relaxed away from the pressures of Formula 1.
Family Perspectives on Future Commitments
Carlos Sainz Sr., himself a legendary figure in motorsport, shared his thoughts on his son’s personal life with Hola Magazine. He emphasized the importance of careful consideration before making major life decisions like marriage.
“Well, I think getting married and starting a family is a very difficult decision for everyone. You have to think about it. You have to choose who will be the mother of your children. You have to meditate on it.”
—Carlos Sainz Sr., Former Rally Driver
“I’ve already been with my two daughters, this time it’s not my turn, it would be Reyes’ turn (laughs)… Seriously, I trust that when he decides, it will be because it’s clear,”
—Carlos Sainz Sr., Former Rally Driver
While family remains central to Sainz’s life, his current focus is fully on improving his results with Williams in the 2025 season.
Reviewing a Tough First Half of the Season
Sainz openly acknowledged the frustration that has marked the early part of his year in Formula 1. Speaking to F1.com, he reflected on his expectations compared to the reality he has faced on track.
“Everything that has happened on track in terms of results has been incredibly frustrating and very disappointing because I expected, after a good adaptation period with the car, to start getting results pretty quickly given how competitive and how fast I’ve been this year.
—Carlos Sainz, Williams F1 Driver
“But for certain reasons, results are not coming and that frustrates me but I’m sure it will come at a point in the season.”
—Carlos Sainz, Williams F1 Driver
So far, Sainz has accumulated only 16 points from the opening 14 races and three sprint events in 2025, while his teammate Albon has outperformed him, leading the midfield standings. This season represents a significant challenge as the Spaniard attempts to rediscover his winning form.
Outlook for the Rest of the Season
Despite the setbacks, Sainz remains determined to turn his season around with Williams. The support from Donaldson and his family, especially the presence of his father, plays a key role in maintaining his motivation. With the summer break providing some respite, the upcoming races will be critical for Sainz to demonstrate his capabilities and climb the championship standings.
His focus on professional improvement and personal well-being signals a careful balancing act as he navigates the pressures of top-level motorsport while considering his future beyond racing.