The future of Ferrari, at least for the next 2 years, will still be linked to the Leclerc-Sainz couple, one of the most balanced and appreciated in the paddock. The season has just begun and we have already seen them rejoicing together on the podium several times but now one has 2 victories in his pocket, the other is chasing his first victory with the red bike that has placed so much trust in him and that just this morning announced a contract renewal until 2024.
On the eve of Imola
After a series of negotiations, the official announcement came, as expected, on the eve of the Imola weekend: Carlos Sainz Jr will remain in the Maranello team until at least 2024. Although Sainz has not yet obtained a satisfactory result like those of the teammate in the 2022 season, already positive with 2 victories, the renewal for the Spaniard seemed a more than plausible hypothesis, and the signing a pure formality. At the beginning of the season, Ferrari Team Principal Mattia Binotto declared that they were close to a new agreement with the Spanish driver, whose contract expired at the end of the season. “Carlos has proven to be the talent we always thought of”, commented Mattia Binotto, who added: “I have said several times that I believe we have the best pairing of drivers in Formula 1 and therefore, with each passing race, it seemed to me a completely natural step to extend Carlos' contract, thus guaranteeing stability and continuity.
Charles Leclerc has already had the deadline set at 2024 for some years. Ferrari has in fact immediately blocked the Monegasque by offering him a contract with a rather unusual duration for the Maranello team. The arrival of the F1-75 and the atmosphere of newfound serenity inside the Ferrari pits also silenced the rumors that at the end of the year spoke of a clause in the Monegasque's contract which he could have released if Ferrari were not confirmed in 2022 at least third force.
But although Carlos' great work had never been questioned by the team, the negotiations in recent days seemed to have stalled, with rumors about Sainz requesting a two-year deal rather than a 1+1 proposed by Ferrari. It must be said that these rumors also came after the Spaniard's bad weekend in Australia, compared to the excellent weekend of his team-mate who scored his second victory of the season. However, Carlos' renewal has never really been questioned. Sainz was recognized for the great work he did when he arrived at Ferrari even when he wasn't on everyone's lips for his victories and excellent results. He immediately entered the team's mechanisms, bringing home results and certainties.
“I am very happy to have renewed my contract with Scuderia Ferrari”Sainz said. “I have always said there is no better Formula 1 team to race for and, after over a year with them, I can confirm that wearing this racing suit and representing this team is unique and incomparable.
“My first season in Maranello was solid and constructive, with the whole group moving forward together. The result of all that work has been clear so far this season.
“I feel strengthened by this renewed show of self-confidence and now I can't wait to get in the car, do my best for Ferrari and give its fans so much to cheer about.
“F1-75 is proving to be a frontrunner, which can allow me to chase my goals on the track, starting with my first Formula 1 win.”
Source: Motorsport.com
