Carlos Sainz is in an awkward position. Although he is, on paper, the most highly-rated driver in the market, his only options for 2025 are midfield teams. No seats are available among the front-runners, like Mercedes or Red Bull. However, even teams further down the order could look at alternatives to Sainz if he continues delaying his decision.
Just over a week ago, Sainz said he would sign a contract “very soon” and end the speculation about his future.
Within a matter of days, the Spaniard has completely changed his tune. The 29-year-old now says that he will not be rushed into making a decision:
“So as much as maybe there are some teams that are nervous or pressuring me, it’s time for me also to enjoy this moment of being on a podium.
“And I’m going to be honest and straightforward with the teams. But it’s such an important decision for me also that I’m going to take all the time that I need to take it.
“And if there’s teams that cannot wait or are a bit impatient, I cannot do anything about it.
“It’s going to be my future, my decision, and I’m going to try and be as honest as possible with everyone and give myself the time that I need.”
Sainz begins to frustrate teams
In theory, there is nothing wrong with a driver exploring their options. Sainz, like anyone else, is entitled to make a calculated and assured judgement.
However, his potential destinations have been the same for several months. Since Red Bull extended Perez’s contract, Sauber and Williams have been Sainz’s two most realistic destinations.
The only real change recently is that Alpine suddenly seems to have captured the Ferrari driver’s attention.
For Sauber and Williams, the fact Sainz is so reluctant to reach an agreement is not the most flattering observation. Even before last week’s Spanish GP, these teams (as is standard practice) were negotiating with several drivers.
That said, James Vowles and Andreas Seidl are more aggressively pursuing other drivers.
Esteban Ocon is understood to be a top priority for both teams, whilst Valtteri Bottas is also on the radar.
Sainz might be the most highly rated driver available, but he must take a decision soon. Though he insists that nothing will pressure him into a reactionary contract, waiting any longer could have significant consequences.
