Carlos Sainz reacts to possibility of joining Mattia Binotto at Audi in 2025

No sabbatical year
Among the many doubts and uncertainties that still affect his future, Carlos Sainz is clear about one thing: no sabbatical year for the 2025 Formula 1 championship. The Spaniard, although the chances of joining a top team like Red Bull or Mercedes are dwindling day by day, has no intention of stopping or spending a season “parked” in some team as a third driver.

“Absolutely not,” commented the former McLaren driver on the eve of the Belgian Grand Prix weekend at the 7.004-kilometre Circuit de Spa-Francorchamps. “Taking a sabbatical year is not even in my thoughts. I am in Formula 1, and I love Formula 1.” – he pointed out.

“I would prefer to go to a mid-field team and help and use my skills, thanks to my career, to try to help a mid-field team find the right path, rather than taking a year off to be the third driver for someone. I am competitive and know that I can still bring this side of me to a mid-field team.” – he added.

Carlos Sainz then spoke about the possibility of joining Mattia Binotto at Audi, speaking highly of his former team principal but not revealing too much on the matter: “I am not up to date on everything that is happening in every team. Naturally, I think Mattia’s arrival in any team is positive, especially because he has the experience of what it takes to build a team that is a top team nowadays.” – the Spaniard continued.

“He has that experience from Ferrari that he can bring to Audi, and I am sure he is a great asset for them. That’s why they hired him, and yes, of course, I wish him all the best. My best option for next year would be a car that can fight for the title. It has always been my first priority since discussions about my future began. We all know the likelihood of this happening is small, but it has always been my goal. If it doesn’t happen, I will choose the best project for my short-term future.” – Carlos Sainz concluded.