Carlos Sainz has been denied access to the Red Bull door.
Amidst reports, although denied by Carlos Sainz, that he turned down Audi to wait on Red Bull or Mercedes, Jacques Villeneuve says there was “no way” the Spaniard was ever in contention for Red Bull.
Sainz, who was released by Ferrari even before the start of the season, was initially rumored to be joining Audi. However, with no official announcement made, speculations started to circulate that he might be considering options with Red Bull or Mercedes.
‘Carlos Sainz waited too long on something that he knew was not going to happen’
Both are now said to be off the list, although Red Bull is the only one of the two to give official confirmation as the team announced Sergio Perez will remain Max Verstappen’s team-mate for a further two seasons.
Speculation about Sainz potentially replacing Verstappen at Red Bull has been halted, as both of them started their careers together at Red Bull’s junior team in 2015.
Villeneuve believes that Red Bull is hesitant to have a teammate who can compete with Verstappen, especially considering the recent resolution of their off-track issues involving team boss Christian Horner earlier this year.
“Sainz, the impression is he’s just waited too long on something that he knew was not going to happen,” he told Sky Sports. “There was no way the Red Bull seat would open.
“There has been an excessive amount of chaos throughout the winter, and what they truly need now is stability.”
Christian Horner has successfully reestablished the team, ensuring Max’s contentment amidst their lack of victories. It is crucial for them to initiate progress promptly.
Perez understands his role and knows better than to join the team with the intention of outperforming Max.
“He acknowledges his fortunate position of still being there, fully aware that he will always be overshadowed by Max. He resembles a Barrichello or an Irvine at Ferrari during their time, accepting his role. This attribute is beneficial for the team, so why not embrace it?”
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Jacques Villeneuve evaluates Carlos Sainz’s options
However, Sainz has ruled out the possibility of joining Red Bull. On the other hand, Mercedes has an available seat, although team boss Toto Wolff has stated that Mercedes junior driver Kimi Antonelli is considered the team’s “future”.
According to Villeneuve, Sainz has the possibility of spending a year with Mercedes or he might choose to accept Audi’s long-term offer.
If not, Williams have made it known they are interested.
“He went on to explain, ‘In addition, Sainz is not interested in signing a one-year contract. Mercedes has their eyes on Antonelli for the 2026 season and they want him to gain experience elsewhere before joining the main team. This puts Sainz in an uncomfortable position as a driver.'”
“If you have the opportunity to sign a five-year contract with Audi, why not consider it? This would provide you ample time to establish your team. Although the factory requires some improvements, it holds potential as a promising prospect. Additionally, the wind tunnel is already impressive.”
“If Williams isn’t on the way up, then it’s still not a bad place to be.”
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