Carlos Sainz believes he is entering a crucial phase of his career and wants to ensure that his next move offers him the opportunity to compete for championships, following his surprise replacement by Lewis Hamilton at Ferrari. The Spaniard’s contract expires at the end of this season, and he had hoped to secure a new deal before the news of Hamilton’s arrival in 2025 was announced in early February. Sainz, however, is in no hurry to finalize a move to another team as he believes he is entering his prime as a driver.
“I initially wanted to have my future sorted before the first race, but the circumstances have changed significantly,” Sainz explained. “It will likely be a longer process now. These upcoming three or four years are probably the most crucial of my career. I want to ensure I am in the right place at the right time, so I will take my time to carefully consider and evaluate all the options available to me. I want to make a decision when I feel calm and confident, having given myself sufficient time and information.”
Sainz emphasized that it is impossible to separate his current situation from his focus on the upcoming Bahrain Grand Prix. He expressed his determination to start the year strong and put all his effort into performing well from the outset. He also acknowledged the role of his management team in handling the contractual matters, allowing him to concentrate on his racing responsibilities.
While Sainz admitted to being surprised by Ferrari’s decision to bring in Hamilton, he revealed that he was informed of the news in advance. Despite the early knowledge, he still needed time to process the information and prepare for the season ahead. He acknowledged that the surprise was not exclusive to him but extended to the entire Formula 1 community.
Regarding the absence of a contract for 2025, Sainz expressed confidence in his abilities and track record, stating that he does not see this season as a make-or-break opportunity to impress potential suitors. With nine years of experience in Formula 1, including the last three with Ferrari, Sainz believes that his capabilities are well-known. He is hopeful that this year’s car will be more competitive, particularly in races, where he aims to showcase improved performance through better strategy, tire management, and overtaking.
In conclusion, Carlos Sainz is approaching a critical phase in his career and is taking his time to carefully consider his next move. Despite the surprise of being replaced by Lewis Hamilton at Ferrari, Sainz remains confident in his abilities and does not see this season as a defining moment. He is focused on starting the year strong and extracting the maximum potential from the car.
According to the Source racer.com