New Williams driver Carlos Sainz has taken up a new position as a Director of the Grand Prix Drivers Association (GPDA).
Effective immediately, Carlos Sainz joined George Russell as a Director in the organisation representing driver interests in F1.
The appointment sees the Spaniard become the second active driver in F1 to join the Association in in a senior role.
Chaired by Alex Wurz, Anastasia Fowle heads up their legal affairs. George Russell and Carlos Sainz look after the driver elements.
In a statement released on social media, Sainz said he was “proud” to take up his new role. He also said he planned to “forward the sport.”
“I am passionate about my sport and think we drivers have a responsibility to do all we can to work with the stakeholders to forward the sport in many aspects,” Sainz said.
“So, I’m very happy and proud to do my part by taking on the director’s role in the GPDA.
GPDA Chairman Alex Wurz spoke of his delight at Sainz’s appointment to what he called a “vital role”.
“We are delighted to welcome Carlos as GPDA Director.
“He has been an active and engaged member of the GPDA for several years and we sincerely appreciate his commitment in stepping up to this vital role.”
GPDA history
The historic GPDA was first formed in 1961 to promote driver safety and represent driver interests.
Deaths in F1 were frequent during the sport’s early years, with Jackie Stewart among many attempting to force through safety changes before the Association was dissolved.
However, safety fears resurfaced in the 1990s after the deaths of Ayrton Senna and Roland Ratzenberger at Imola in 1994.
Conversations began immediately after Roland Ratzenberger’s death on Saturday, with title rivals Senna and Michael Schumacher amongst the prime movers.
Senna’s death on Sunday shocked the entire motorsport world and catalysed profound change within F1.
The GPDA was reformed before the next round in Monaco, liaising with the FIA on the urgently needed safety reforms.
The Association continues to represent drivers to this day.
Feature Image Credit: @WilliamsRacing on X
