Christian Horner, Red Bull’s team principal, has hinted at the possibility of Carlos Sainz joining the team in 2025. Sainz’s recent victory at the Australian Grand Prix, despite recovering from surgery, has showcased his potential as a strong contender for Red Bull, especially with current uncertainties in the driver market.
What we’re watching:
- Carlos Sainz’s impressive win in Australia, post-appendectomy, puts him on Red Bull’s radar for 2025.
- Sergio Perez’s performance is under scrutiny, despite a strong season start, after finishing fifth in Melbourne.
- Yuki Tsunoda’s consistent results keep him in consideration, but Horner is open to external options.
- Ferrari’s new lineup for 2025 leaves Sainz seeking a competitive seat, with his track record speaking volumes.
- Red Bull remains optimistic about bouncing back at the Japanese Grand Prix, despite Verstappen’s recent retirement.
Go deeper:
Christian Horner has not dismissed the idea of Carlos Sainz driving for Red Bull Racing in the future. Sainz’s triumph in Melbourne, just over two weeks after an appendectomy, demonstrates his resilience and skill, traits that Red Bull values. His victory not only broke Max Verstappen’s winning streak but also highlighted Sainz as a formidable opponent on the track.
Despite Yuki Tsunoda’s commendable performance, securing seventh place for AlphaTauri, Horner acknowledges the need to consider drivers outside the Red Bull talent pool. Sainz’s availability comes as Ferrari has announced Lewis Hamilton will partner with Charles Leclerc starting in 2025, leaving Sainz without a seat at the prestigious team.
Sergio Perez, currently with Red Bull, had a less than ideal race in Australia due to a grid penalty and unexpected issues with visor tear-offs affecting his car’s performance. However, Horner emphasizes that there’s no rush to make decisions as Perez has had a commendable start to the season.
Sainz’s record of three victories since 2021, matching that of his teammate Leclerc, makes him an attractive candidate for Red Bull. His ability to disrupt Red Bull’s dominance, with a win in Singapore last year and now in Australia, has not gone unnoticed by Horner.
Looking ahead, Red Bull is eager to return to form at the Japanese Grand Prix, a track that has historically been favorable for them. It’s also the home circuit for Honda, Red Bull’s engine partner, adding to the team’s anticipation for a strong performance. Despite the setback of Verstappen’s recent retirement, the team’s confidence remains high, with Horner jokingly referring to Sainz as their “nemesis.” The focus now shifts to Suzuka, where Red Bull aims to reclaim their winning ways.
