While Ferrari prepares for the most important weekend of the season, that of Monza, Information continues to arrive from Spain on a possible transfer of Carlos Sainz with the aim of forming the line-up for Audi's return to F1 in 2026. <strong>The Eurobursar</strong> Maranello – which will see the contracts of both drivers expire in 2024 – has already denied the rumors about the Spaniard signing a pre-contract with Audi. The goal is to continue to focus on the duo formed by Leclerc and Sainz in view of the new engine regulations in 2026. But Sainz's ambitions could push him to want something else. Despite the denials, it is clear that Audi is interested in the Spaniard. This was also confirmed by father Sainz who recently made statements to PlanetF1.
At the moment, the future plans of Sainz and Ferrari are unknown. We continue to talk about Leclerc's renewal, but not that of Sainz. The biggest concern is the SF-23 and its refinement for the upcoming races. A Zandvoort the Spaniard had an excellent race, despite his fifth place finish. The same cannot be said of Leclerc, forced to retire after a contact at the start which damaged the floor and contributed to a significant loss of load. For Monza, however, expectations are higher.
Sainz Sr. confirms contacts
If Ferrari is trying to rebuild its success, through key figures, such as the technical department, Alfa Romeo – Sauber is no less eager to do so. Andreas Seidl, CEO of the Sauber Group, is outlining plans for 2025, which could include the exclusion of both Valtteri Bottas and Zhou Guanyu. Audi is ready to return to F1 but wants to do it in an ambitious way. This is why it is moving to have a line up worthy of the brand available. At the moment there are no specific confirmations but Carlos Sainz Sr. confirmed contacts with Audi.
“Obviously there is contact, but at the moment there is nothing concrete,” said dad Sainz. "I think it's a wait-and-see moment for us. Ma obviously Audi is moving. They are working hard. They have the ambition to become very good, very fast, so they are moving very strongly."
Carlos would also have Seidl's support: “I believe Andreas worked with Carlos for a couple of years at McLaren, they know each other very well and have had a very successful time. I think Andreas is one of the guys who appreciates Carlos the most and the quality he is able to do with speed and feedback, so I think he knows him very well.”
Source statements: Planet F1
