Carlos Sainz remains the big unknown in the F1 driver market. As the summer break approaches, there is still no certainty on when he will sign a contract for 2025. Although Audi and Alpine are the front-runners, a decision is not expected anytime soon.
Carlos Sainz continues to play the waiting game
In just the last month, there has been plenty of change in the F1 world. Perhaps the biggest off-track development concerns Sergio Perez, who is at risk of being replaced at Red Bull.
Although Sainz is not seen as a contender to join the reigning Champions, the volatility at Red Bull shows why the Spaniard has chosen to take his time in the market.
After missing out on Red Bull and Mercedes contracts, Sainz has chosen to bide his time and evaluate the remaining options.
For now, the two main paths for the 29-year-old are midfield teams.
The first is Sauber/Audi, whose interest in the Spaniard is well-established.
Since Ferrari announced they had replaced Carlos Sainz for the 2025 season, Audi moved to start negotiations.
As a manufacturer team, Audi can offer a sizable salary and – more importantly – the chance to join a project with immense potential.
Although there are plenty of question marks surrounding Audi’s F1 chances, an engine supplier will inevitably have better chances of reaching the top than a customer team.
McLaren are the only team in recent years to buck the trend.
Alpine still under consideration
Speaking of engine manufacturers, Alpine are the other team working to secure Sainz’s services.
Curiously, the French outfit is considering abandoning the Renault engine in favour of Mercedes power.
In essence, Alpine could sacrifice its manufacturer status when the new 2026 regulations arrive.
Whilst this could be seen as a step backwards – with team Enstone outsourcing their development to someone else – it could make them a more attractive prospect in the short term.
Since Mercedes are expected to produce a front-running engine in 2026, Sainz might prefer a Mercedes-powered Alpine as an interim option.
As it stands, the three-time race winner’s preference is unclear. There are still plenty of changes behind the scenes at Alpine and Audi.
The arrival of Mattia Binotto, for example, could impact how Carlos Sainz perceives the potential of Audi’s engine project.
Then again, as seen throughout 2024, the Ferrari driver will likely continue deliberating on his decision for the foreseeable future.
