Scuderia Ferrari driver Carlos Sainz has discussed the Formula 1 driver market ahead of the Shanghai Grand Prix in China, effectively dismissing rumors that he was already heading to Mercedes.
According to the Spanish driver, who took part in the official press conference for the Shanghai Grand Prix earlier today, in the last two weeks there have been “no updates” on his contractual situation. Set to leave Scuderia Ferrari at the end of 2024 Formula 1 championship, the Australian Grand Prix winner is not short of alternatives. However, time is quickly passing.
The 2025 driver market, after Fernando Alonso’s confirmation at Aston Martin, is once again at a standstill. The next major piece to be moved on the Formula 1 chessboard is Carlos Sainz. This, of course, assuming Max Verstappen remains firmly at Red Bull for at least another season. While in Japan, #55 said that negotiations needed to be sped up, on the eve of China there are no updates.
“All my best options are still open,” Carlos Sainz stated. “I think this is positive, it will still take some time given the situation in the driver market. Everyone will want to take their time to make their choices. But the best options are open. There has been no progress in recent weeks, I don’t have much to update you on.” – he pointed out.
So no Mercedes, despite the fact that rumors in the Spanish media reported Carlos Sainz had already signed with Toto Wolff’s team? In the absence of an official announcement, it is fair to give the benefit of the doubt. Notably, the Brackley team has recently conducted initial tests on a Formula 1 car with Andrea Kimi Antonelli.
“Obviously, you reach a point where the sooner there are developments, the better,” continues Carlos Sainz. “It’s not that it’s having an effect on my performance this year, but it’s better to clear your mind as soon as possible. But this requires a certain decision-making process, so now is the time to let that happen and see how things proceed.” – the Ferrari man concluded ahead of the Chinese Grand Prix.
Source: f1ingenerale
