Ex-F1 driver asserts Max Verstappen not feared of competing against Carlos Sainz as teammate
With Red Bull turning a blind eye to Carlos Sainz last year, Max Verstappen’s influence within the team was brought in light.
Follow Us
Max Verstappen and Carlos Sainz, image via IMAGO
Lewis Hamilton switching to Ferrari for 2025 was one of the biggest stories of past year. On the contrary, this left Carlos Sainz without a seat for 2025. A move to Red Bull was soon thrown in the bin as Max Verstappen’s presence was understood to give a tough competition to the latter, but Juan Pablo Montoya asserted how the Dutchman doesn’t fear anyone.
After getting kicked by Ferrari to make way for Lewis Hamilton, Carlos Sainz’s chances of landing a seat at the sharp end seemed highly likely. During the same time, he had won the Australian GP, proving his worth to the grid. Red Bull. On the other hand, had a second driver that was struggling frantically to score points and the Spaniard was perceived as the best driver to replace the underperforming Mexican.
Though this move seemed to be on the cards, Red Bull decided to give Sergio Perez an extension, who ultimately got replaced by Liam Lawson by the conclusion of the 2024 season. Experts started conspiring about how the 34-year-old was able to earn a contract renewal amidst his downturn in form and linked it to Max Verstappen’s influence of not wanting competition within the team.
Juan Pablo Montoya reasoned otherwise and asserted how the reigning champion does not fear anybody. But, admitted that an intelligent driver would use his stature within the team to control the decisions made by the hierarchy. Though, Lawson’s arrival could change things.
It’s not about fear, it’s about intelligence. Why make your life unnecessarily difficult and create a difficult atmosphere in the team?
Juan Pablo Montoya said (via Casasdeapuestas.bet)
On the other hand, Verstappen reps up for the 2025 season. He is not considered the favorite for the title by many. But, he would be working his way around to prove critics wrong and bag in an impressive fifth-world championship.
Carlos Sainz eager to begin journey with Williams
Sainz’s dire situation left him to choose between various backmarkers for a future in F1. He was initially left dejected with the way his options started vanishing, but Williams remained a strong contender on his radar. The Spaniard subsequently signed for the Grove-based team and got a taste of Williams machinery at Abu Dhabi last year.
After getting the hang of FW46 in the post-season test, Sainz claimed that he was impressed with the team. Moreover, he is ecstatic to make his Grand Prix debut with the team and lay the foundations for a strong F1 season.
It’s an important time for the team and we are all going to push to bring Williams back to the front of the grid as soon as possible. I was very impressed with the team back in Abu Dhabi… We’re not far away from the Silverstone car launch and I can’t wait to see my new ride! 2025 will be an exciting year and we are fully committed to putting together a strong season. VAMOS!
Carlos Sainz said (via Williams)
However, the 30-year-old’s move to Williams is a huge gamble. If the English team is not able to turn its fortunes around, then he risks getting off the radar of the top teams. Appearing as the final nail in his F1 coffin and potentially only limit him to being remembered as a four-time Grand Prix winner.
Stay Updated!
Geetansh Pasricha
(772 Articles Published)