With reports and rumours surrounding the driver market intensifying, Carlos Sainz wants to secure guarantees for his Formula 1 future. Driver contracts and development surrounding can be expected to dominate F1 news for the foreseeable future.
However, unlike several drivers on the grid, the Spaniard already has a contract for the 2024 season. His concerns are far more long-term, with the 28-year-old set to act proactively and safeguard his interests.
Sainz is performing at a solid level for Ferrari, often within touching distance of teammate Charles Leclerc – a driver renowned for his raw pace.
His performances in 2021 were particularly noteworthy, given the general expectation that he would struggle to match the efforts of his Monegasque teammate.
For all these positives, it seems clear that Leclerc has an edge in overall performance. There are also no secrets about the strong and well-established relationship between Ferrari and Leclerc.
With this in mind, Sainz will be eager for assurances that he is part of the Italian outfit’s long-term plans.
A situation similar to that of Valtteri Bottas at Mercedes (a series of one-year contracts) is unlikely to be acceptable for the Spaniard.
Although there are no indications of any kind that Ferrari isn’t satisfied with their current driver lineup, Sainz makes no secret that he wants certainty:
“I do prefer starting a season already knowing where I’m going to be the following year,” he told AutoAction.
“Because that takes away the distraction that there always is when negotiating a new contract.
“You need to be fully focused on what you’re doing on track and on the work you have to do with the team you’re currently with.
Carlos Sainz Jr (ESP) Ferrari SF-23.
28.07.2023. Formula 1 World Championship, Rd 13, Belgian Grand Prix, Spa Francorchamps, Belgium, Qualifying Day.
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“That’s the only way to make progress.
“While it’s still early days and the end of the season is still some four months away, it’s true that once this championship is over, I’ll fully focus on sorting my future.
“The goal is to go into the 2024 championship without any worries about it, and my contract for the future is already signed and sealed.”
Fred Vasseur, Charles Leclerc and Carlos Sainz have all insisted that contract negotiations should take place at the end of the year. For now, the priority at Ferrari is improving performance.
Still, in a sport where situations can change so quickly, it is understandable for drivers to make preemptive measures to silence the rumours and F1 news stories speculating about their future.
Author: Jaden Diaz-Ndisang
