Carlos Sainz has voiced his confusion over Red Bull’s decision to overlook him as Max Verstappen’s team-mate for the 2025 Formula One season. Although aware that Lewis Hamilton would replace him at Ferrari in 2024, Sainz secured a seat at Williams with Alex Albon. Later, when Red Bull parted ways with Sergio Perez, the vacant seat sparked speculation around Sainz’s potential return, but the team ultimately chose differently.
Reflections on Past Partnership with Verstappen During Rookie Years
On the High Performance podcast, Sainz shared his perspective on the challenging role of being Verstappen’s co-driver. He highlighted their previous experience racing together at Toro Rosso in 2015, which he recalled positively.
“I think everyone’s having a really tough time being Max’s team-mate. I can only say that when I was Max’s team-mate, I didn’t have this tough time,”
he said, expressing puzzlement over why he was not picked again despite their history.
Addressing Speculation of Tensions Between Teams
Rumors suggest that tensions between Sainz’s and Verstappen’s camps may have played a role in Red Bull’s decision. Sainz dispelled these speculations, asserting a strong and friendly relationship with Verstappen.
“The only thing I can say is I genuinely get on well with Max. This is what people don’t see from the outside,”
he noted, emphasizing that their rivalry in their rookie season was constructive and that they now maintain a good personal connection.
Red Bull Opts for Liam Lawson and Then Yuki Tsunoda Instead
Despite Sainz’s assurances, Red Bull selected Liam Lawson to fill Perez’s seat in 2025. However, Lawson was replaced by Yuki Tsunoda after only two races due to struggles with the car. Sainz expressed confidence that he could have developed a winning partnership with Verstappen if given the chance, believing his experience and skills would have complemented the team’s ambitions.
Competition and Career Reflections Among Top Teammates
Looking back at his career, Sainz acknowledged competing alongside some of the sport’s fastest drivers, including Charles Leclerc, Lando Norris, and Nico Hulkenberg. He acknowledged Alex Albon’s pace at Williams and expressed his desire to continue challenging leading drivers in Formula One.
“I’ve been team-mates with Charles [Leclerc], with Lando [Norris], with Nico Hulkenberg, very quick guys, and probably the best in the sport,”
he said, reinforcing his readiness to face elite competition head-on.
Recent Performance Highlights and Current Standings with Williams
Since joining Williams, Sainz has secured his best finishes of the 2024 season by placing eighth in both the Saudi Arabian and Emilia-Romagna Grands Prix. Currently ranked 15th in the drivers‘ championship, he trails teammate Alex Albon by 33 points. Despite these challenges, Sainz remains determined to prove himself and improve his standing among top Formula One racers.
Looking Ahead: Sainz’s Focus on Continued Growth and Competition
Carlos Sainz continues to reflect on his journey and aspirations within Formula One, driven by his experiences with renowned drivers and the ongoing pursuit of excellence. Although questions linger about Red Bull’s decision to pass over him for the 2025 season, Sainz’s focus remains on demonstrating his abilities and competitiveness on the track with each race weekend, maintaining his determination to rise through the ranks.
Our Reader’s Queries
Q. Why does Carlos Sainz have 55?
A. During his career, the number 55 has been closely linked with the Spanish racer. It’s an important part of who he is both on and off the track. Carlos Sainz chose this number because of a clever wordplay with his name: Carlo5 5ainz.