Carlos Sainz might find a way back to McLaren if circumstances change, as declared by McLaren CEO Zak Brown.
- Sainz, once part of McLaren’s ‘bromance’ with Lando Norris, drove for the team in 2019 and 2020 before a fruitful stint at Ferrari.
- Although now racing for Williams, Sainz remains a cherished consideration for McLaren’s future, despite their long-term commitments to Norris and Piastri.
- McLaren’s recent victory in the Constructors’ Championship signals a shift in team dynamics, contrasting Sainz’s current phase at Williams.
- Sainz’s commitment to Williams aims to recapture past glories, reminiscent of his youthful aspirations in Formula 1.
Carlos Sainz has found himself at a crossroads, contemplating a possible return to McLaren if the situation allows it. McLaren CEO Zak Brown has expressed interest in having Sainz back on board, should a seat become available. McLaren’s 2019 and 2020 seasons saw Sainz team up with Lando Norris, with the duo famously developing a close partnership.
Since leaving McLaren, Sainz spent four years with Ferrari, only to make a move to Williams amidst changes at Ferrari, including the acquisition of Lewis Hamilton. While McLaren has achieved significant success by winning the Constructors’ Championship for the first time since 1998, Sainz is experiencing a different journey at Williams, needing to adjust his expectations.
Zak Brown, when asked about the possibility of dropping Sainz for Hamilton, noted that while Lewis Hamilton’s prowess is undeniable, Carlos’s time at McLaren was marked by strong performance and camaraderie. Brown added that having Sainz as an option remains open, ‘If we had an open seat, of course, we would consider Carlos.’ However, long-term deals with Norris and Piastri currently limit this possibility.
Sainz is committed to a new chapter with Williams, aiming to lift the team to its former glory. He scored a respectable eighth place in Saudi Arabia, building on earlier performances. His motivation roots in childhood dreams of driving for legendary teams like Ferrari, McLaren, and Williams.
Emphasizing these aspirations, Sainz remarked, ‘Nothing would make me happier and more proud, and it would definitely be the proudest moment of my career if, one day, I could be on the podium with this team.’ His commitment to Williams signifies a desire to be part of this transformative journey back to the top.
For now, Carlos Sainz remains dedicated to his path with Williams, but McLaren’s door remains ajar should F1’s ever-shifting landscape present new opportunities.