Carlos Sainz Jr, from Spain, driving for Ferrari, was seen in the parc ferme area after the Emilia Romagna Grand Prix in Imola, Italy, on May 19, 2024. Sainz is confident that he is not missing any potential opportunities in Formula 1, as he carefully considers his options for the 2025 season. With Ferrari’s decision to hire Lewis Hamilton, Sainz was left without a seat and is now evaluating his choices for the future. He has had discussions with Red Bull about joining Max Verstappen, but it seems that Audi’s proposal is his best option due to Sergio Perez’s likely contract extension. Audi plans to enter the sport in 2026, taking over the Sauber team, and Sainz is their main target. Despite reports suggesting that Audi wants a decision by the end of this month, Sainz stated that he is still far from reaching a resolution. He wants to have all options on the table and carefully consider this important decision at this stage of his career. Turning 30 this year, Sainz wants to ensure that his next project is successful and will take as long as necessary to make the right choice. Sauber recently announced that Nico Hulkenberg will join them in 2025, but Sainz dismissed rumors that Audi is pressuring him for a response in the coming weeks. He is confident that delaying his decision will not result in missed opportunities from other teams. Sainz assures that he is well informed behind the scenes and will not disclose any information prematurely. Once he makes his decision, everything will fall into place quickly as he finalizes his next contract. Previously, Sainz was considered a possible replacement for Hamilton at Mercedes, but recent reports suggest that Mercedes is no longer interested in hiring him. When asked about this, Sainz neither confirms nor denies the rumors.
