Carlos Sainz is clear about his priorities for the winter break as he works to sign a contract extension with Ferrari. Although an agreement is widely expected, there are still important details to address.
Ferrari is the only top team with both drivers on contracts that expire in 2024. Mercedes and McLaren have both drivers on multi-year deals, whilst Max Verstappen enjoys a blockbuster deal with Red Bull.
Addressing this is a crucial objective for Fred Vasseur to complete over the winter. As it stands, Charles Leclerc is likely to agree to a multi-year deal with the Italian outfit – potentially with a 3+2 year structure.
Although the exact length is uncertain, the 5-time race winner is set to stay at Maranello for some time.
Sainz is also in contract negotiations, although the situation is slightly more complicated. There is no question that both parties want to continue their partnership. However, there are still fine details to address.
Whether the Spaniard agrees to a two-year deal or something longer is likely the point of contention. Still, the 29-year-old is solely focused on representing the Maranello-based team for the foreseeable future:
“My objective is to start 2024 knowing where I will compete in 2025,” he explained at a recent event with Estrella Galicia.
“My priority is to continue with Ferrari many more years. I have to reach an agreement with the team.
“We still have three months before the first race.”
Sainz made similar comments earlier this season, emphasising his aim to know his future before the start of 2024. This is a consistent preference across the field, although many drivers don’t enjoy the luxury of signing a contract before the year begins.
In any case, Ferrari will be eager to confirm their driver line-up before Bahrain 2024. Only time will reveal the nature of Sainz and Leclerc’s new contracts.
Author: Jaden Diaz-Ndisang
