James Vowles, the team principal at Williams, is open to the possibility of adjusting their driver lineup before the end of the 2024 season.
This week, Vowles affirmed the rumors that Carlos Sainz, to forcibly depart Ferrari at the end of the year, has inked a deal to join Williams starting in 2025 "and beyond."
Sainz is set to replace the underperforming American racer, 23-year-old Logan Sargeant.
"I want to thank Logan for everything he has done for the team and know he will continue to fight hard for us in the races ahead," Vowles expressed in a press release.
Yet, in a follow-up discussion with the authoritative Italian outlet formu1a.uno, Vowles hinted that Sargeant's position could be in jeopardy immediately following the summer break.
"Logan has to earn his place at this team, but that goes for everyone - just like Alex (Albon) and just like me," he remarked. "I definitely don't want to say he has a permanent place at Williams."
So far, Sargeant has not secured any points in 2024 and has compounded the team's financial pressures due to crash-related damages.
Simultaneously, Vowles maintains a strong relationship with his previous boss, Toto Wolff.
Together, they are reportedly considering offering Kimi Antonelli a chance to gain some F1 experience at Williams this year before his anticipated full-time debut with Mercedes in 2025.
"It's not like Toto is forcing him on us, no," said Vowles, whose team at Grove operates with Mercedes engines and technical support, when questioned about the young Italian racer.
"To be honest, I'd rather give Logan the chance to be successful.
"But if we can make the car faster, and we will make it faster, then I have a responsibility to make sure we finish as high in the championship as possible. If Logan can deliver at that point, that's great. If he doesn't, then I have to rethink my options."
