The viral memes about Carlos Sainz driving a safety vehicle in 2025 are getting widespread online. This is owing to the Spaniard’s failure to find a new F1 team. The present Ferrari driver would have to give up his place to Lewis Hamilton for the upcoming season. Furthermore, Sainz is at the heart of the entire driver’s carousel, as the fortunes of other drivers are somewhat dependent on his actions.
Amid all the driver’s dancing chair drama, the Spaniard has opened up about him being replaced by Hamilton. During a recent media interaction, Sainz shared his thoughts about Ferrari’s move to cash in on the Briton.
Carlos Sainz Is Happy To Be Replaced By A Seven-Time World Champion
Earlier in February, Ferrari brought Lewis Hamilton to replace Carlos Sainz for the 2025 season and beyond. The Italian team reportedly agreed to a multi-year deal worth $446 million to pair Hamilton with Charles Leclerc.
Now, roughly half a year later, Sainz reflected on this decision in an interview with GQ Spain. He expressed that he felt less heartbroken about being replaced because it was by a driver with seven F1 world titles, 104 race victories, 104 pole positions, and 200 podium finishes. Sainz understood Ferrari’s decision, recognizing the opportunity to sign a seven-time world champion and the benefits it could bring to the team. He acknowledged that, upon reflection, it didn’t hurt him as much because being replaced by one of the best drivers in history is different from being replaced by any other driver. If someone had to replace him, Sainz was glad it was Lewis Hamilton.
Earlier, before the 2024 Bahrain GP, Sainz reiterated that he had no hard feelings about the situation. He respected Hamilton’s success and understood his decision to join Ferrari, stating that he would have made the same choice if he were in Hamilton’s position. This perspective shows Sainz’s sportsmanship and respect for the nature of the sport.
Sainz’s Next F1 Move ‘Not Easy’ As Options Dwindle For The Spaniard
The current Scuderia driver also spoke about his admiration for Williams, calling it a super-emblematic team in Formula 1. He noted that Williams is one of the few teams he hasn’t been with yet, along with Red Bull Racing and Mercedes. While uncertain about his future, he acknowledged the possibility of joining these teams someday.
Reflecting on his ten years in F1, Sainz mentioned that he has raced with five different teams and has fond memories of each. He feels confident that he will be welcomed back if the opportunity to return to any of these teams arises.
Further, the Spaniard emphasized the importance of finding a competitive car and a project that provides stability and motivation. Thus, he aims to balance these factors to lead a team to a world championship. This is why his decision about his next move takes time, as he considers the significant impact it will have on his career and future.