Carlos Sainz Sr, fresh off his victory in the 2024 Dakar with Audi, has once again addressed the potential move of his son to Ingolstadt in view of 2026.
Although we are well into 2024, there is still no sign of the renewal for Charles Leclerc and Carlos Sainz. Speculations suggest that the announcement might come during the unveiling of Ferrari’s next car, set to take place on February 13th at Fiorano. While awaiting official confirmation, the Audi specter looms on the horizon for Carlos Sainz if the agreement were to suddenly fall through.
Sainz to Audi in 2026: Carlos Senior speaks out
“I believe Audi is a guarantee,” stated the 61-year-old Spaniard, who secured his fourth Dakar victory just days ago with the four-ring manufacturer.
“I know how seriously they take every project, and I am well aware of what the German mentality entails in the world of motorsport, with its advantages and disadvantages. But we must respect the Volkswagen Group as Audi.”
Months ago, rumors circulated that Carlos Sainz had signed a pre-contract with Audi for 2025. This speculation was promptly denied by his entourage, reiterating Carlos’s intention to continue his journey with Scuderia Ferrari, which began in the 2021 Formula 1 championship, when he replaced Sebastian Vettel in Maranello.
“We all know that F1 is a somewhat special world, but I have a lot of respect for Audi,” added Carlos Sr. “I think it will be a matter of time before they succeed in Formula 1.
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“I don’t have a crystal ball, but if Audi decides to enter F1, they have all my respect. I believe they are giving their best to make it a good project. Naturally, at home with Carlos, since I am part of the Audi family, it is logical that we talk and exchange opinions about what the Audi team can be in the future.” – he pointed out.
The directly involved party, just a few weeks ago, reiterated the intention to extend the agreement with the Scuderia: “At Ferrari, they know me, read the telemetry, know what I am capable of. I would like to continue there for many more years. I am not the type for just one year; those are speculations. I feel Fred’s and the team’s esteem, and I will extend if I continue to feel it: If we both want it, we will achieve it.” – the Spaniard explained.
It remains to be seen whether the long-awaited signature will come before the start of the season or if, as feared by the driver himself, Carlos Sainz will be forced to begin the championship without a clear vision regarding his Formula One future.
Source: f1ingenerale
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