F1 News: Carlos Sainz Breaks Silence On Leaving Ferrari As Lewis Hamilton Steps In
Carlos Sainz has addressed his departure from Ferrari with a determination to finish his tenure on a positive note, amidst the news of Lewis Hamilton replacing him from the end of 2024. This announcement has sparked a significant interest in Sainz's short term future in the sport.
Key Takeaways:
- Strategic Shift at Ferrari: Ferrari's recent announcement about signing Lewis Hamilton for a multi-year contract starting in 2025, alongside Charles Leclerc, signals the end of Carlos Sainz's journey with the team after this season. Sainz is reportedly in discussions with Mercedes and Sauber, which will become a works Audi team in 2026.
- Sainz's Reaction to the News: Sainz has made his first public remarks since the announcement, indicating a process of exploring his future options while emphasizing his commitment to his final season with Ferrari.
- Forward Focus: Despite the upcoming departure, Sainz is resolute in making the most of his last year with Ferrari, showcasing his growth and ambition as a driver.
Carlos Sainz, in his first statement to the media since the news broke, shared his feelings and plans moving forward.
“I’m fine, I’m calm, we’re working for the future but above all for that that we have ahead of us, a very important year, my last year with the team and I want to do the best I can. I’m training to prepare as best I can and give everything,” he told Sky Sports.
Lewis Hamilton will be sitting next to the Scuderia's current lead driver Charles Leclerc when he enters the team for the 2025 season.
The decision by Ferrari to not include Sainz in their future plans was a significant one, but Sainz clarified his position and readiness for what's to come.
"From the inside I knew and saw things before all of you, I was prepared,” he stated, indicating that he was not caught off guard by the announcement. “But I want to think only about this season, about doing my best for Ferrari in this championship."
Reflecting on his career and future, Sainz conveyed a sense of optimism and determination.
"I am a driver who every year has become stronger and stronger, I have not taken steps backwards but only forwards in my career and I am continuing to grow," he highlighted.
“This year I will turn 30 but I feel younger and more motivated than ever.
“I know what my value is as a driver and I know that there will be good things in the future but this year I want to do my best with Ferrari.”
As Sainz prepares for his final season with Ferrari, he remains committed to competing at his best, albeit with one eye on the future. Despite the challenges of knowing he will part ways with the team after this year, he is determined to remain competitive.
"Knowing that it will be the last year with a team is not the most normal thing to start a new season but as soon as I put on my helmet in Bahrain and get on the track, you can be sure that I will only think about going as fast as possible,” Sainz confirmed.
“And if there is the chance to become World Champion I will try to take it.”