Formula 1 has arrived in Miami for the sixth round of the season. As we move forward, there are more and more questions to which we seek answers. One of these is linked to the future of Carlos Sainz and the rest of the market movements. Every week is crucial when it comes to negotiations and contracts. Just a few days ago Audi announced the name of the first driver of the 2026 line up, that is Nico Hulkenberg. The second name that Audi would like is that of Carlos Sainz, although the Spaniard does not seem to be in a hurry to sign. Sainz has repeatedly underlined the fact that he wants to wait to make the right choice. On the eve of the weekend in Miami, however, a new scenario emerged from the paddock. That is, Sainz would have rejected a huge offer from Audi, waiting for a call from Red Bull or Mercedes. When questioned about these rumours, Sainz however denied having refused an offer from Audi.
Carlos Sainz knew well in advance that 2024 will be his last season at Ferrari. In February, in fact, the team announced the arrival of Lewis Hamilton. Sainz therefore found himself back on the market and with an entire season still to play. The start was very positive for Sainz who even took a victory in Australia, the third race of the season. Only in China did the Spaniard fail to finish on the podium. But this setback didn't just affect him but the entire team.
Audi offer, Sainz denies the refusal and takes time
This start to the season has made him the most promising driver on the market. In addition to Audi, Mercedes is also keeping an eye on it. The first option for the star team who still has to find a replacement for Hamilton is Verstappen. Especially after the departure of Adrian Newey, things could change quickly at Red Bull.
Compared to Audi, Mercedes would be the safest choice for Sainz. He would immediately join a top team, without having to spend a year waiting for Audi to arrive. On the other hand, in addition to an ambitious project at Audi, Sainz would have the full support of his father, who knows the Audi environment well. As we said, a fundamental component is time. Sainz wants to take the right time to decide, while Audi would like to close the matter as soon as possible. Because of this rumors regarding a refusal of the Spaniard to an offer from Audi they immediately seemed credible. However, Sainz denied these rumors.
“There is no truth in these rumors” Sainz told the press in Miami. “As I already said, there are things that don't completely depend on me and we will have to wait. But, in the meantime, it's not like I or we are completely still. We are still having conversations with people and putting forward what we can put forward, but all of these things always include the waiting that, as I said before, we will have to do, for people to decide in various areas. The only certainty I have is that I want to make the right decision. That's why it took a little longer and that's why I want to see all the options available before making any fundamental decisions.”
Source statements: RacingNews365
