The entire Formula 1 world is on tenterhooks, awaiting news about Carlos Sainz. The Ferrari driver is set to be replaced by Lewis Hamilton in 2025 and is yet to secure a new contract. Sainz claims to be satisfied with his current offers, but his options appear to be dwindling. McLaren, where the Spaniard raced for two years, is also hoping for his signature soon.
Carlos Sainz’s Impressive Stint at McLaren
Carlos Sainz drove for McLaren between 2019 and 2020. Alongside his good friend Lando Norris, he secured two podium finishes, including a second place in Monza. Andrea Stella, the team boss, still holds the Spanish driver in high regard. During the race weekend in Canada, he praised Sainz for his expertise, stating that Sainz’s feedback was instrumental in the team’s development.
Stella’s Praise for Sainz
“Sainz is certainly an interesting driver,” said the McLaren boss. “His main skill is his rationality. He plans ahead on how to achieve the fastest lap time and how to race best. He combines this with a fantastic instinct.” The feedback that Sainz subsequently provided to the team has been invaluable for McLaren.
“He always communicates his findings well,” Stella explained. “This is something the team can really work with. I believe these qualities have been very important to us.” Where Sainz can apply these skills in the future remains unclear. Sauber and Williams seem to be the only realistic options for the three-time race winner. The latter is focusing on securing the ‘smooth operator’ as quickly as possible.
