The shift in the driver market was set in motion by Lewis Hamilton’s unexpected move to Ferrari. Despite having his contract extended by Mercedes, Hamilton chose to sign with Scuderia, a decision rooted in his childhood ambition. However, this move created uncertainty for Carlos Sainz. The talented Spanish driver, who has shown great form this season, found himself in a difficult position, searching for a new team.
Although there were several opportunities available for a driver of his caliber, the 29-year-old was unable to finalize a deal. He was considered a strong candidate to replace Hamilton at Mercedes and was also linked to a potential move to Red Bull. Yet, in a surprising turn of events, Sainz chose to sign a multi-year contract with Williams, leaving many in the paddock stunned. However, rumors of Sainz joining Red Bull have resurfaced, as he might be a potential candidate to replace Sergio Perez. Christian Horner has opened up on the possibility of Red Bull snatching Sainz from Williams.
Christian Horner Closes The Red Bull Door On Carlos Sainz
Christian Horner has firmly dismissed any speculation about a late move for Carlos Sainz, even though the Spanish driver signed with Williams earlier this year. Sainz became a free agent in early February after the surprise announcement that Lewis Hamilton would be leaving Mercedes to join Ferrari for the 2025 season. As the months passed, Sainz was linked to several teams, including Red Bull and Mercedes, but Red Bull ultimately re-signed Sergio Perez with a one-plus-one contract, which includes an option for 2026.
However, Perez’s performance has been underwhelming, with the Mexican driver failing to secure a significant number of points since his fourth-place finish in Miami in early May. His struggles have led to growing speculation that Red Bull might make a change at the end of the season, with drivers like Liam Lawson, Yuki Tsunoda, and Williams’ Franco Colapinto being considered as potential replacements. Colapinto, who has impressed since stepping in to replace the dismissed Logan Sargeant after the Dutch Grand Prix, is also reportedly in line for a seat. But with Sainz joining Williams to partner Alex Albon for next season, there is no room for Colapinto at the team.
Despite the rumors about Williams possibly releasing Sainz to make space for Colapinto, Horner remained clear in his response. While he acknowledged Sainz’s talent and recent success, including a win in Mexico, he emphasized that Sainz is committed to Williams for the next season and would not be part of Red Bull’s plans for 2025.
“No Exit Clause For Sainz,” Clarifies Williams
Recent reports have suggested the possibility of a clause in Carlos Sainz’s contract with Williams that might allow him to leave if Red Bull shows interest. However, Williams swiftly responded to these rumors. A senior source within the team told GPFans that the claims were purely speculative and clarified that no discussions or contractual terms exist that would allow Sainz to move to Red Bull.
