\n<\/p>\n
Albon also says he’s enjoying his second season with teammate Carlos Sainz, who joined Williams from Ferrari for the 2025 campaign.<\/p>\n
Sainz is a director of the Grand Prix Drivers’ Association – a group representing the interest of racers – and is a popular figure.<\/p>\n
But Albon says he’s also been taking the lead in other ways off the grid.<\/p>\n
“When the drivers get together to play padel, everyone wants Carlos on their team,” he says.<\/p>\n
“He’s a step ahead of everyone.” <\/p>\n
Albon’s partner is the Chinese professional golfer ‘Lily’ Muni He – so surely he has the advantage over 18 holes?<\/p>\n
Not quite.<\/p>\n
“Carlos is also really good at golf. It’s really annoying,” he says.<\/p>\n
“I’m going to focus on darts and make that my niche.”<\/p>\n
For now though, it’s back to the racing and wondering if celebrating on the podium with his 14 cats is how Albon visualises his first top three finish for Williams.<\/p>\n
“I don’t think we’re allowed enough paddock passes in F1 to bring them all in,” he says.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n