On Wednesday, the F1 news featured Carlos Sainz and Mattia Binotto.
Wednesday’s fast-paced F1 news roundup features the latest on Carlos Sainz, Mattia Binotto, and Sergio Perez – what do their futures hold?
Get ready for an exhilarating journey through the top headlines, zooming at the speed of light…
F1 news: Carlos Sainz out of running for Mercedes, and is Mattia Binotto returning?
Carlos Sainz out of contention for Mercedes seat… for now.
Carlos Sainz, who was once a strong contender for the available position at Mercedes, has currently paused negotiations with the Brackley-based team.
Sainz is eager to secure a contract swiftly, but Mercedes is not in a hurry. They are keen to observe Verstappen’s actions and assess Antonelli’s potential in Formula 2. The Italian prodigy can obtain a super licence in August without requiring any special permission.
According to PlanetF1.com, Sainz is currently not considered for a seat, but there is a chance for him if his other options do not work out.
Read more: Carlos Sainz out of contention for Mercedes seat… for now
Mattia Binotto linked with prominent role at Aston Martin
Mattia Binotto was in the F1 paddock at Imola, and was spotted dipping in and out of various hospitality units – but he spent quite a long time in conversation with Aston Martin owner Lawrence Stroll, according to Italy’s La Gazzetta dello Sport, who claim the team has a ‘concrete interest’ in making Binotto their team principal.
They further mention that Binotto’s gardening leave period, which is a standard practice for senior team members after leaving Ferrari, ended six months ago. This means that he is now able to consider any potential opportunity offered by Aston Martin, if such an opportunity exists.
Under the guidance of Principal Mike Krack, the team presented a series of enhancements for the Aston Martin AMR24 at Imola. However, these upgrades did not result in significant progress, as the team only managed to secure two points thanks to Lance Stroll.
Despite any suggestions that Aston Martin may need to revert to the previous spec AMR24, Krack argued that a step forward was indeed achieved and dismissed such ideas.
Krack confidently expressed to the media, including Thomas Maher from PlanetF1.com, that the upgrades undeniably represent progress.
There is no necessity to push them out.
Read more: Aston Martin linked with bold new team boss move after key figure ‘spotted’ in hospitality
Yuki Tsunoda’s update on Red Bull future
Yuki Tsunoda, who is currently without a contract for 2025, has a strong possibility of obtaining an extension with Red Bull. However, it is uncertain whether he will continue with his current RB team or be promoted to Red Bull.
When Honda returns to Formula One in 2026 as Aston Martin’s engine supplier, the driver supported by Honda could potentially become a contender for Aston Martin as well.
During his interview with Channel 4, Tsunoda expressed his unwavering commitment to Red Bull and gratefully recognized Honda’s significant role in shaping his career thus far.
Tsunoda stated, “To be completely honest, RB is doing exceptionally well, and as a result, I don’t have much to express in terms of strong feelings that I need to share.”
However, let’s observe how things unfold. Undoubtedly, there are many factors at play simultaneously. Nonetheless, my affiliation with the Red Bull family has been long-standing, and I hold a considerable amount of loyalty towards them. Additionally, Honda has greatly assisted me in reaching this point.
I have a deep affection for this team, mainly due to the Italian culture they represent. Their humor is truly remarkable. However, if I am presented with alternatives, I am open to exploring them as well.
Read more: Yuki Tsunoda issues fresh update on Red Bull F1 future amid Aston Martin speculation
Sergio Perez’s latest contract update
Sergio Perez remains the top candidate for the yet-to-be-confirmed Red Bull seat alongside Max Verstappen, and the Mexican driver expressed his optimism about finalizing a new agreement as soon as he can.
Perez confirmed to the media, including PlanetF1.com at Imola, that since nothing has been signed, everything remains undecided and open.
However, I have a strong belief that in the near future, specifically as we approach the most challenging phase of the season, I am eager to resolve it and move forward.
We believe it is crucial for me to concentrate on the racing aspect, therefore, we anticipate that everything will be settled soon, and we can then disclose it to you.
Read more: Sergio Perez gives update on Red Bull future after new contract rumours surface
Pat Symonds switches sides in stand-off between Andretti and F1
Pat Symonds, the former F1 chief technical officer, has made a surprising move by joining the team he once worked against. Symonds, who had previously overseen the technical analysis of Andretti’s F1 entry before it was rejected by F1, has now switched sides and joined the very team he played a role in keeping out.
In our assessment of the situation, Symonds’ switch can be compared to a complete defection, as the 70-year-old has transitioned from being a gatekeeper to becoming a hopeful applicant.
Read more: Pat Symonds’ defection to Andretti is a clear message sent straight to F1
