Carlos Sainz Sr, having recently claimed victory in Dakar, reveals his optimism about the Audi F1 project. The World Rally Champion admits to having discussions with his son Carlos Sainz Jr about the German manufacturer’s project.
As mentioned in previous articles, contract negotiations between Carlos Sainz and Ferrari are taking longer than anticipated.
Fred Vasseur explained last year that the winter break would be the best time for contract talks. Simultaneously, the Spanish driver has outlined his hopes of securing a new deal before the 2024 campaign begins.
Unfortunately for the 29-year-old, an agreement has yet to materialize.
This is not to say that Sainz is out of contention. He remains the favourite to partner Charles Leclerc at Ferrari for at least the 2025 season.
However, there is still some distance between the two parties that need bridging. If this weren’t the case, the Maranello-based team would have surely made an announcement already.
With this in mind, other options for Sainz are worth contemplating. After all, provided an agreement is not agreed before the season begins, nothing is guaranteed moving forward.
Owing to connections with his father, Carlos Sainz Sr, alongside previous declarations from the manufacturer team, Audi is often mentioned as a potential option for the two-time race winner.
Speaking after claiming a 4th victory in Dakar, Carlos Sainz Sr gave his perspective on Audi’s F1 entry:
“I know very well how seriously they take every project. I know what that German mentality means in motorsport,” motor.es quotes him as saying.
“You have to respect them. We all know F1 is a slightly different world, but I have a lot of respect for Audi.
“I think it’s only a matter of time [until they succeed in Formula 1]…
“Logically, at home with Carlos, being in the Audi family, it is logical we talk and exchange opinions about what the team Audi could become in the future.”
These comments carry some truth, considering Audi’s investment and backing. They will undoubtedly be a team to follow closely when they join in 2026.
With that said, they remain an unknown quantity in Formula 1. At least in the early stages, they are unlikely to reach the performance of established players like Ferrari.
Carlos Sainz has stated that signing a new contract with the Italian outfit is the priority.
For now, this is still the most likely outcome. Race wins and podiums are only realistic for the Spaniard in 2024 and 2025 with the Italian team.
Still, the next few months should provide more details on the Sainz-Ferrari partnership.
Author: Jaden Diaz-Ndisang
