Ralf Schumacher feels "Carlos Sainz has lost confidence in Ferrari and is looking for alternatives"

Despite having a contract with Scuderia Ferrari until the end of the 2024 Formula One championship, Spanish driver Carlos Sainz has recently been the subject of numerous rumors suggesting he may be on the verge of leaving the Prancing Horse following the 2023 campaign. These rumors have been fueled by alleged favoritism towards the other Ferrari driver, Charles Leclerc, who, in turn, would prefer a project focused solely on him.

This situation is causing some nervousness within the Italian team, especially concerning Carlos Sainz. This is evident from his restless statements and occasional lapses on the track. Ralf Schumacher noticed this as well and expressed his thoughts to Sky Sport Germany’s microphones. Below are some of his most important comments and impressions:

Ralf Schumacher: “Sainz has lost confidence in the team”

“I have the feeling that Carlos Sainz has lost confidence in the team. There are rumors that his father is in the paddock looking for alternatives, which is strange,” says Ralf Schumacher in his interview with the renowned television broadcaster.

The German then mentions Carlos Sainz’s off-track excursion during the first practice session for the Hungarian Grand Prix in Budapest: “The mistake on Friday on the semi-wet track shouldn’t normally happen. It’s a difficult situation for him and for Ferrari. Frederic Vasseur has a lot of work to do, and while we need to be patient as he has just started, Ferrari is a disaster at the moment.” Referring to Carlos Sainz’s possible alternatives for the future, Ralf Schumacher emphasizes:

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“Carlos Sainz Sr. is very close to Volkswagen thanks to rallying, and Audi needs a profile with experience. But a driver must also be a team player, and at the moment, Carlos Sainz doesn’t make a good impression. Additionally, he can drive, but he makes many mistakes, and his performances are very inconsistent. It’s not a good business card for his future.” – the former Formula 1 driver believes.