Leclerc Says 'Many, Many Team Principals' Are Talking To Sainz

Monday, 25 March 2024 at 10:34

During a press conference following the 2024 Australian Grand Prix, Charles Leclerc asserted there is high demand for Carlos Sainz.

Scuderia Ferrari F1 driver Carlos Sainz, who won the third race of the season at Albert Park Circuit just two weeks after undergoing surgery, is still without a contract for the next season.

Sainz learned shortly before the beginning of the 2024 season that he would be replaced by Lewis Hamilton in Ferrari, which caught him a bit off guard, so he had to start this year without the security of a signed contract.

After his winning performance in Melbourne, the Spaniard jokingly highlighted that he is still "without a job" for next year." Asked whether he thinks that his 29-year-old teammate is underrated, Charles Leclerc told the media:

"I think everybody knows Carlos' worth in the paddock. He's one of the highest-rated drivers in the paddock."

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"He's been extremely strong every time he was in a Formula 1 car. And he has showed it multiple times. So, I don't think he's underrated for that."

The fact that Scuderia decided to take the seven-time World Champion over Sainz doesn't take away from his driving abilities, and Leclerc backed his teammate, saying everybody knows his worth.

Sainz apparently had already begun negotiations with Mercedes, and his father was also spotted talking to Red Bull bosses.

So far, everyone is just looking around to see what their option are, but Sainz's latest performance might give him a significant boost on the market. Leclerc added:

"I think everybody knows Carlos' worth. And that's why I've said many times that I'm not too worried about his future. Because I'm sure that many, many team principals are…"

"He doesn't say it, but for sure they are speaking with him! And I'm sure he will have many opportunities, and he'll just have to make the best choice for his career."