What Are Sainz's Options? Analysis Of F1 Teams He Could Race For Beyond 2024

Sunday, 28 January 2024 at 21:00

Carlos Sainz's contract with Scuderia Ferrari expires at the end of the 2024 season, and so far, the driver has no certainty about his future. Where could we see him after the upcoming season?

Carlos Sainz has been with Ferrari since the beginning of the 2021 season. Throughout his years with the team, he has achieved two wins and 16 podiums.

During the most recent season, the Spanish driver showed remarkable consistency. Moreover, he was the only non-Red Bull driver to win a Grand Prix with an astonishing performance in Singapore.

Both his and Charles Leclerc's contracts are set to expire at the end of the season 2024. While Ferrari has suggested, the team was keen on continuing with both drivers, so far, only Leclerc's contract extension has been announced.

Rumors suggest Sainz's negotiations with the Italian team are at a standstill. Allegedly, the Spaniard would like a longer contract than the team is willing to offer.

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According to F1 reporter Lawrence Barretto, the Prancing Horse is currently in talks with other drivers like Alex Albon from Williams. It seems like, the team is seriously weighing out their options.

Where could Sainz go if he wasn't able to secure a seat with Scuderia in the end? Being in one of the top teams, almost everything would be a step down for the 29-year-old.

Mercedes and McLaren are full and satisfied with their drivers. Then there are teams like Red Bull and Aston Martin. But Aston Martin seems to be happy with both of their drivers, and Red Bull reportedly has Daniel Ricciardo at the top of their replacement list for Sergio Perez.

One team that Sainz has been connected to is Audi. However, the German manufacturer will enter F1 in 2026, and a move to the team would be very risky.

Firstly, because Stake F1 team (the team that will transition to Audi) will most likely not be competitive during the season 2025 which he would have to wait out with the team.

Secondly, Audi is a completely new manufacturer with zero experience in F1. It might take a few seasons for Audi to break through.

So, being part of the team in 2026, Sainz would not necessarily have a really high chance of competing for the Championship title. Where would you like to see the Spaniard after the end of the season 2024?