Despite Carlos Sainz having already signed a contract with Williams for 2025, the transfer rumours have not died down. In the Formula 1 paddock, there is still talk of a possible arrival of the Spaniard at Red Bull, especially after the recent difficulties of Sergio Perez. Adding to the speculation was Christian Horner's presence in Williams hospitality during the Brazilian GP, a meeting that many interpreted as a sign of interest from Red Bull in Sainz. However, Horner wanted to clarify the situation, silencing the rumors.
Transfer rumours: Red Bull wants Sainz?
Speculation about Sainz joining Red Bull began in February, following the announcement that Lewis Hamilton would be joining Ferrari for 2025. With Sainz out of the Scuderia's plans, several teams showed interest in the Spaniard. Red Bull, who renewed Sergio Perez's contract until 2025, has nevertheless had to endure a difficult season with the Mexican, who has scored just 48 points in the last 15 races. This disappointing performance has reignited rumours about a possible change in the Austrian team's line-up.
The unknown Colapinto and the role of Williams
To further complicate the situation, the arrival of the young Argentine talent Franco Colapinto at Williams. Colapinto has impressed in his appearances at the wheel of the British team, making it difficult for management to find room for him in 2025, when Sainz joins the team. Rumours about a possible move for Sainz to Red Bull are also linked to the hypothesis that Williams could free up the Spaniard's seat to make room for Colapinto, thus opening the door to negotiations with Red Bull.
Christian Horner, however, was keen to play down the speculation: “There is always a lot of speculation in the paddock,” he said. “Carlos is a great driver and will do very well at Williams, but he is not in our plans for next year. We already have a solid line-up with Max and Sergio."
Sergio Perez's Uncertain Future
Sergio Perez's struggles in the second half of the season have fueled speculation about a change at Red Bull. The Mexican, who seemed to have found his footing in the team in the first few races of the year, has seen a marked decline in performance, raising questions about his long-term permanence. Perez has scored just eight points in the last five races, a result far from what is expected of a team aiming for the world title.
Despite Horner's statements, the future of Perez remains uncertain. Helmut Marko has already anticipated that a discussion about his seat will take place at the end of the season. In this context, Sainz's name has come back into play, especially considering his experience and his ability to adapt quickly to new teams.
Sainz: contract with exit clause
Sainz's contract with Williams includes an exit clause that would allow him to leave the team after two years if the team fails to be competitive. This clause has fueled speculation that he could move to Red Bull if the opportunity arises. However, Horner has been clear that the Spaniard is not part of the Austrian team's plans at this time.
Despite Horner’s denials, the Formula 1 driver market is always unpredictable, and Carlos Sainz’s future could be a surprise. If Perez fails to turn things around in the final races of the season, Red Bull may be forced to reconsider their options for 2025. With Sainz’s exit clause in his contract and the pressure on Perez mounting, the Spaniard’s name will continue to be at the centre of discussions in the paddock.
Source statements: RacingNews365
