Carlos Sainz dismisses speculation about Ferrari future

Carlos Sainz, the Ferrari Formula 1 driver, has dismissed speculation regarding his future with Audi, stating that it would be premature to discuss any potential move while he is still under contract with Ferrari. Sainz joined Ferrari in 2021, and despite initial assumptions that he would play a subordinate role to teammate Charles Leclerc, he demonstrated his capabilities by outperforming the Monegasque driver in their first season together.

Although Sainz ultimately lost the intra-team battle to Leclerc in the following season, he achieved a significant milestone by securing his maiden Formula 1 race victory at the British Grand Prix. Additionally, the 2022 campaign saw him claim his first-ever pole position. However, this year has presented challenges for Ferrari, as their SF-23 car has struggled to match the pace set by Red Bull. Thus far, none of the Ferrari drivers have won a Grand Prix, with all five victories going to Red Bull, and only Leclerc has managed to secure a podium finish, while Sainz’s best result was a fourth-place finish at the season-opening Bahrain Grand Prix.

Recent rumors have linked both Ferrari drivers to rival teams, with Leclerc potentially joining Mercedes and Sainz connected to Audi, who are set to join the grid in 2026. However, Sainz emphasized that it is premature to discuss his future as he remains fully committed to Ferrari and his ambition to become a World Champion with the Italian team.

Sainz stated, “I know there’s still two very important years ahead of us, and I think further up than that would be stupid to talk about. But I feel I still have yet to achieve my full potential as a driver. And I feel like at least here I’ve already done another good step in the right direction. My immediate future, I only see it with Ferrari and wanting to be successful with this team. There’s nothing that would make me happier than winning again with Ferrari, than mounting a title challenge with Ferrari.”

Expressing his contentment within the team, Sainz highlighted the positive atmosphere at Ferrari and his motivation to be part of a championship fight. While acknowledging the ongoing speculation, he reaffirmed his commitment to Ferrari, emphasizing his desire to compete for titles in the short and medium term.

Sainz’s sentiments align with those of his teammate, Charles Leclerc, who has also expressed his intention to remain with Ferrari. Leclerc recently addressed rumors linking him to Mercedes, stating his belief and trust in the Ferrari team. However, he acknowledged that it is still too early to discuss a new contract.

Currently, Sainz occupies fifth place in the Drivers’ Championship standings, with 44 points after five races of the 22-race season. He trails championship leader Max Verstappen by 75 points, highlighting the challenges Ferrari faces in their pursuit of success.