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Carlos Sainz Makes Relationship Statement With Rebecca Donaldson in F1 Paddock

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Samriddhi Jaiswal | Last updated Sep 4, 2025 6:06 AM ET

Carlos Sainz has never been one to make headlines for his private life, but his relationship with Scottish model Rebecca Donaldson has quickly become one of the most talked-about stories in the F1 paddock.

In his latest video, renowned F1 photographer and paddock insider Ky Illman reflected on Donaldson’s growing presence trackside and the scrutiny she has faced since being linked with the Ferrari driver. “Sadly, it’s not uncommon for new girlfriends to cop online abuse when they first enter the F1 arena,” Illman said. “That was the case with Rebecca Donaldson. She copped plenty of it, but thankfully, that’s largely subsided.”

Donaldson, a model and influencer, first appeared in Monaco in 2023, attending the race before her relationship with Sainz became public.

Illman recalled first speaking with her at Red Bull Energy Station that weekend and later featuring her in his “Women of the Paddock” series. By the time she attended the U.S. Grand Prix in Austin and then Mexico later that year, she was openly supporting Sainz as his guest.

According to Illman, both Donaldson and Sainz now seem fully at ease with the spotlight. He described her as “nothing but delightful” in their interaction and noted how Sainz has become more comfortable showing affection publicly, pointing to a moment in Jeddah earlier this year when the Williams star posed warmly with Donaldson for the cameras.

Sainz also doesn’t shy away from posting pictures with his girlfriend. Recently, Donaldson celebrated Sainz’s birthday by having the restaurant sing for him and it went viral among fans.

For a driver known for his focus and composure, Sainz’s willingness to share this part of his personal life is being seen as a statement of confidence — both in his career and his relationship.

And in a sport where attention is relentless, Donaldson has begun to turn skepticism into support.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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