Carlos Sainz claims negotiations open with Audi despite ‘no assurance’ over 2025 seat

Carlos Sainz is one of the most attractive prospects in the driver market for next year.

Carlos Sainz claims negotiations open with Audi despite ‘no assurance’ over 2025 seat

Carlos Sainz, Audi F1 Showcar (images via IMAGO).

Ever since it was announced that Lewis Hamilton would be replacing Carlos Sainz at Ferrari from 2025 onward, the Spaniard has been on the lookout for a seat. He’s backed his hopes of obtaining a top seat in F1 by performing brilliantly throughout the first five rounds of the ongoing season and has even amassed a race victory in Australia. But, even after all his displays of brilliance, there’s still no announcement regarding his future.

One of the main teams who are interested in obtaining Carlos Sainz is Sauber who is going to become Audi in 2026. The German manufacturer’s interest in the Spaniard was confirmed by Helmut Marko a few weeks ago when he said they’ve put forward a lucrative offer for him.

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Following the offer, there were rumors recently that the 29-year-old was given a deadline by Audi to accept the contract, which he supposedly missed. But, during the Miami Grand Prix press day, Sainz was asked whether he thinks there’s still an option for him to drive for Audi in 2025 and whether he has an assurance of a seat.

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No, the only assurance that I have is from myself that I want to take the right decision. That’s why it’s also taking a bit longer and that’s why I want to see all the options available before taking any fundamental decision.

Carlos Sainz via Motorsport.com

The three-time Grand Prix winner added how he has no assurance of a seat, and it all depends on him and his will to make the correct decision. He concluded by revealing how he wants to ensure he thoroughly checks all the options available to him before signing a contract.

Carlos Sainz reveals his thoughts on Nico Hulkenberg’s move to Audi

Carlos Sainz and Nico Hulkenberg were teammates at Renault back in 2018 and the two were pretty evenly matched throughout the season. The pair were very competitive and always did hard racing with each other.

Carlos Sainz and Nico Hulkenberg
Carlos Sainz, Nico Hulkenberg and Audi F1

After the German’s recent move to Sauber (will become Audi in 2026) the Spaniard was asked to share his thoughts on the move.

I think Nico joining Audi makes complete sense for them and for Nico. I think he’s a great driver whose talent I’ve managed to see, I think he’s a great signing for them and I congratulate them because he’s been doing great at Haas.

Carlos Sainz during the same interview

The 29-year-old revealed how it makes sense for Audi to sign his ex-teammate as he was always very fast and talented and he’s still showing his speed in Haas. With the Spaniard being a very interesting option for Audi, only time will tell if fans can see the same pairing again at the pinnacle of motor racing.

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