Is there still a possibility for Carlos Sainz to join Mercedes?
Ralf Schumacher believes there is a “great chance” Carlos Sainz will sign with Mercedes, so much so he can “almost see him” alongside George Russell.
Several reports months ago speculated about a potential swap between Sainz and Lewis Hamilton, who was said to be headed to Ferrari. Mercedes was among the teams linked to Sainz during that time.
Ralf Schumacher can ‘almost see’ Carlos Sainz alongside George Russell
The thought was rendered meaningless as Toto Wolff stepped back from the negotiations, stating his priority is to observe the progress of Mercedes junior Kimi Antonelli in Formula 2.
According to formulapassion.it, he stated, “We engaged in discussions with Carlos Sainz, even discussing the terms of a potential agreement. However, we have decided to withhold our final decision until the autumn.”
Not wanting to mess Sainz around, Wolff decided it was “better” to withdraw from the negotiations.
However, he later acknowledged that Sainz could potentially still be considered, with the condition that the Spanish driver would need to patiently wait for Mercedes to finalize their decision.
The outcome relies heavily on Antonelli’s F2 performances, the willingness of Max Verstappen to continue with Red Bull, and the potential availability of Sainz.
Calling Sainz a “sure value, especially in a very tight championship”, Wolff told Mundo Deportivo that the 29-year-old would be a “sure bet” and that “yes” he is still an option.
However, the crucial information lies in the following statement: “If we are given more time to decide, Carlos will still have a chance. However, Carlos must make a decision regarding his options with the other teams.”
The latest 2025 driver line-up news with Oliver Bearman joining Haas
F1 2025 driver line-up: Who is already confirmed for the 2025 grid?
The seven drivers out of contract at the end of the F1 2024 season
Schumacher, though, still sees it happen.
Admitting to Sky Deutschland that it is becoming challenging for the Spaniard as teams finalize their 2025 drivers, he clarified, “There was a strong belief that he would join Williams, but it appears that he is no longer associated with them. Maybe he will be at Alpine.”
“However, there is now a significant opportunity for him to join Mercedes as Toto has indicated that certain circumstances have shifted once again. This is why I can envision him potentially being alongside George Russell.”
Williams, having grown weary of waiting for Sainz, has shifted their focus towards their previous driver Valtteri Bottas. Team boss James Vowles, speaking to various media outlets including PlanetF1.com, confirmed that Williams does indeed have an alternative plan in place.
Regarding Sainz, the Spaniard will not be pressured to make a decision, even though he is currently causing a delay in the driver market.
“I will allocate as much time as necessary to make this crucial decision, as it will heavily impact the coming years of my life,” he expressed. “I believe it is justified for me to grant myself this time.”
Read next: Fred Vasseur’s Carlos Sainz quip after Lewis Hamilton’s record-breaking British GP win
