F1 News: Carlos Sainz Sparks Red Bull Move Rumors After Key Japan Interaction

Saajan Jogia | Apr 6, 2024

Nov 15, 2023; Las Vegas, Nevada, USA; Scuderia Ferrari driver Carlos Sainz Jr. of Spain speaks / Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports

Ferrari driver Carlos Sainz, a prominent figure in the driver market, reignited speculation about his potential move to Red Bull next season. This buzz emerged after he was spotted exchanging pleasantries with Red Bull advisor Helmut Marko in the Suzuka paddock on Friday, sparking renewed rumors and discussions within the Formula 1 community.

Key Takeaways:

• Carlos Sainz's encounter with Red Bull advisor Helmut Marko at Suzuka rekindles speculation about his potential move to Red Bull next season, amplifying discussions within the Formula 1 community.
• Lewis Hamilton's impending shift from Mercedes to Ferrari in 2025 signals the end of Sainz's tenure with Ferrari after the ongoing season, adding another layer of intrigue to the driver market.
• Amid the interest surrounding Hamilton's move, ongoing speculation persists regarding Sainz's potential transition to Red Bull, supported by his recent interaction with Red Bull figures and his impressive track record as the only non-Red Bull driver to secure victories in recent seasons.

Lewis Hamilton is poised to take over Carlos Sainz's position in 2025 as he shifts from Mercedes to Ferrari. His choice to align with the Maranello outfit signifies the end of Carlos Sainz's chapter with the team following the culmination of the ongoing season.

The driver market frenzy, ignited by the British driver's historic move, has been further fueled by ongoing speculation about Carlos Sainz's potential transition to Red Bull next year, given his status as a top contender. Adding weight to the rumors, Sainz was spotted a few weeks ago with Red Bull's team principal Christian Horner and Helmut Marko, alongside his father, Carlos Sainz Sr., who is also a racing driver.

Nov 15, 2023; Las Vegas, Nevada, USA; Scuderia Ferrari driver Carlos Sainz Jr. of Spain speaks / Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports

Last year, Sainz stood out as the sole non-Red Bull driver to clinch a win at the Singapore Grand Prix. Similarly, in the ongoing 2024 season, he remains the only non-Red Bull driver to secure a victory so far, having won the Australian Grand Prix. His accomplishments put him in prime contention for the seat alongside Max Verstappen at Red Bull, particularly with Sergio Perez's contract expiring at the end of this year.

While the anticipation for another round of close racing in Japan has heightened after an eventful round in Melbourne, Sainz's encounter with Marko has stirred speculation once more about his potential move to Red Bull in 2025.

Nothing quite like a public handshake to get tongues wagging...#F1 #CarlosSainz #HelmutMarko #F12025 pic.twitter.com/dktZTNtEoA

— PlanetF1 (@Planet_F1) April 5, 2024

During their interaction, Sainz, Marko, and Sky Germany presenter Peter Hardenacke were seen chatting, with all three appearing to be in good spirits. However, what stood out the most was a handshake between Sainz and Marko.

Sainz's connection to the Red Bull family traces back to his F1 debut with Toro Rosso, now known as Visa Cash App RB. While the interaction between Sainz and Marko could initially appear as a casual greeting, the timing of the meeting, along with Sainz's uncertain seat for the upcoming season and other factors at play, could imply a deeper meaning behind their exchange.

Oct 23, 2022; Austin, Texas, USA; Helmut Marko of Red Bull Racing Team holds up the World / Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports