Carlos Sainz Jr of Spain, driving for Ferrari, is seen in the parc ferme after the Formula 1 World Championship, Round 19, United States Grand Prix in Austin, Texas, USA, on Race Day, October 22, 2023.
Carlos Sainz has emphasized that his primary focus is on concluding his tenure with Ferrari in Formula 1 on a positive note after disclosing that he was “ready” for the news of his departure.
Ferrari announced last week that they had signed Lewis Hamilton on a multi-year contract starting from 2025 to be the teammate of Charles Leclerc, who had already committed to a long-term extension.
As a result, Sainz, who joined Ferrari in 2021, will be without a drive beyond this season, although he has been linked with both Mercedes and Sauber as they transition into a works Audi team from 2026.
Speaking to the media for the first time since the surprising revelation, Sainz stated that his team is currently discussing the available options for the upcoming year.
“I’m doing well, I’m composed, we’re working towards the future, but most importantly, we’re focusing on what lies ahead, which is a crucial year. It’s my final year with the team, and I want to give my best. I’m training to prepare myself as effectively as possible and give it my all,” Sainz told Sky Sports.
The noticeable absence of Sainz’s name from Ferrari’s press release led to suggestions that he had been kept in the dark about their successful pursuit of Hamilton.
However, the Spaniard clarified that he was aware of the latest developments and is now fully concentrated on delivering a strong performance in his last season with the Maranello-based team.
“From the inside, I knew and saw things before all of you. I was prepared,” he added. “But I want to focus solely on this season, on giving my best for Ferrari in this championship.
“I am a driver who has grown stronger and stronger every year. I haven’t taken any steps backward, only forward in my career, and I am still evolving.
“This year, I will be turning 30, but I feel younger and more motivated than ever.
“I know my worth as a driver, and I am confident that there will be great opportunities in the future. However, this year, I want to give my best with Ferrari.”
Sainz acknowledges that embarking on a full season with a team that he will not be associated with after this year is an unsettling prospect until the racing action begins.
“Knowing that it will be my last year with a team is not the most ordinary way to start a new season. However, as soon as I put on my helmet in Bahrain and hit the track, you can be certain that I will only be focused on going as fast as possible,” he stated.
“And if there is a chance to become the World Champion, I will strive to seize it.”