Carlos Sainz remains steadfast in his pursuit of securing his future in Formula 1 at the earliest opportunity. Heading into the winter hiatus last year, the Spaniard reiterated his desire to have a fresh contract with Ferrari in hand before the commencement of the 2024 season.
However, Ferrari’s decision ultimately came as a surprise when they informed Sainz that he would be replaced by Lewis Hamilton for the 2025 season.
In an interview with Marca, when questioned about whether this news had provided him with some sense of liberation for the upcoming season at Ferrari, Sainz responded by emphasizing the importance of resolving his future first:
“First of all I want to solve my future to be clear about where I am going to go – what comes next.”
“Obviously they are not going to count on me much to develop the car, so that does allow me to focus solely and exclusively on getting the most out of myself.
“
Already connected with Sauber-Audi, Mercedes, and Red Bull for 2025, the 29-year-old acknowledges that he may not achieve the swift resolution he desires.
Sainz stated, “Honestly, I have no idea when it will be resolved, because right now the only thing we are doing is talking to everyone and finding out a little about what position each team has for availability and seeing which project suits my needs and intentions
.”
During the pre-season test last week, the presence of his renowned father, rallying legend Carlos Sainz, was notably observed, reportedly assisting in exploring his son’s potential opportunities.
When questioned about his preference between having an immediately quick car for 2025 or opting for a promising project for the future, Sainz Jr. admitted: “Both.”
“In the ideal case I will look to be in a good position both next year and in the future, but in fact I believe that with the change in regulations around the corner, you are having to take into consideration the future much more than ever.
“
Sainz acknowledged that both Mercedes and Red Bull are viable options for him.
He stated, “I think Ferrari, Mercedes and Red Bull are the three teams that you undoubtedly know will be there next year, or for whatever happens even in 2026
.
“But I’m still looking outside of those teams because of how F1 is changing.
“
If Sainz manages to outperform his ongoing Ferrari teammate Charles Leclerc this year, it would significantly enhance his prospects of securing a top seat.
Aston Martin ambassador, Pedro de la Rosa said in an interview that: “Carlos is very strong mentally, he never gives up, he is always there and always strong.
“Leclerc seems to be having a little more trouble with the new car.
“
According F1 commentator Alexey Popov, the year 2024 holds significant importance for Leclerc, as he will be partnered with seven-time world champion Hamilton from the following year.
He said; “Charles has a chance, but he has to grow up in his own head
. His constant self-flagellation, like (Lando) Norris – they need to look at Senna, Schumacher, Verstappen, Alonso, who never have the slightest doubt about themselves.
“If Charles just wants to remain a good guy, Lewis will eat him up even at the age of 40 and not knowing how to speak Italian.
“
