Carlos Sainz has been denied access to the Red Bull door.
Is Carlos Sainz heading to Red Bull for 2025? Formula 1 fans believe so after his father confirmed his reunion with Ford.
Despite being one of only two drivers to defeat three-time World Champion Max Verstappen so far in F1 2024, Sainz finds himself without a home on the grid for next season, with Lewis Hamilton set to replace him at Ferrari.
Carlos Sainz Snr reunites with Red Bull engine partner Ford
Sainz’s remarkable performances in this campaign have garnered attention from multiple teams for the 2025 season. The prevailing rumors suggest that he could potentially join either Red Bull or Sauber, the latter of which will transform into the Audi works team in 2026.
Having emerged victorious in Audi’s final Dakar Rally in 2023, his father possesses extensive knowledge about the Audi brand. However, Sainz Snr has recently made the decision to join Ford for their 2025 program. Ford, the renowned US automotive company, has formed a partnership with Red Bull for the upcoming era of Formula 1 power units scheduled for 2026.
Fans are eagerly interpreting this announcement as a strong indication that Sainz Jnr will make a comeback to Red Bull next year. It is worth noting that he initially commenced his Formula 1 journey as a part of the Red Bull driver program.
A fan took to social media to express their excitement and confidently stated, “It’s official! Sainz Jr is going to Red Bull!”
Another response followed, stating, “Once again, we are aware that Sainz has joined Red Bull.” Another fan chimed in, reinforcing the connection between Red Bull and the Sainz family by saying, “There is yet another tie between Red Bull and the Sainz’s. Carlos Sr. and Ford in Dakar, and now Carlos Jr. in F1.”
It remains uncertain which driver Carlos Sainz would replace if he were to join Red Bull starting next season. Toto Wolff, the Mercedes team principal, is persistently pursuing the signature of Max Verstappen, although the Dutch driver has expressed his contentment and currently sees no motive to depart.
As Sergio Perez’s current contract with Red Bull expires at the end of F1 2024, he is currently engaged in a battle to secure a new deal. However, there is a fan who believes it is highly probable that Perez will ultimately sign new terms with Red Bull.
“Most likely, Verstappen-Sainz partnership in 2025 seems promising, although there’s a possibility of Perez securing an extension.”
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Sainz Snr, who has won the Dakar Rally four times, is quite familiar with Ford. He has had three previous periods with the brand in the World Rally Championship, where he achieved a remarkable five victories.
Sainz expressed his excitement about joining Ford for his first Dakar Rally, stating, “I’m thrilled to be a part of this new project. It’s a privilege to work with Ford again for the fourth time and to reunite with M-Sport, especially with Malcolm who I have a strong connection with. It feels incredible to be back.”
I have a longstanding connection with Ford that dates back to ’87, and I believe I had the privilege of being Malcolm’s inaugural driver, serving as the very first factory driver during those early years. I take great pride in this fact.
“I am filled with immense enthusiasm as I take the wheel of the Raptor truck, ready to tackle this formidable challenge with a multitude of aspirations. Among them, my primary objective is to contribute to Ford’s triumphant victory in the Dakar Rally.”
Sainz Jnr is set to make his comeback at the Emilia Romagna Grand Prix, with Ferrari team principal Fred Vasseur hinting at a strong performance and a potential victory on their home turf.
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