Why Is Audi Not the Best Bet for Carlos Sainz?

“I don’t know where I’m going and I don’t know what will be my best option,” said Carlos Sainz when asked about his plans for 2025. Lewis Hamilton sent shockwaves across the motorsport world when he announced his move to Ferrari. It is a reality that has still not sunk in for many fans like myself. While this is a dreamy partnership for which people can’t wait, the ousted driver Sainz is in a fix right now. He (still) doesn’t have a seat for 2025.

In 2020, the 4 time world champion Sebastian Vettel who unfortunately couldn’t make Ferrari great again was pushed out in favor of young blood Sainz Jr. The world was left shocked by witnessing Vettel’s plight and the unforgiving nature of the sport. 4 years later, the Spaniard who was brought in with such a controversial decision is at the receiving end of the trade. Where does a talented man like Carlos Sainz see himself going? Audi? Mercedes? To a church?

Audi and Carlos Sainz; Can this happen?

Ever since it was made public that Audi will join the F1 circus in 2026, Carlos Sainz’s name has been the clear favorite for the team. Why you ask? It is because of his father’s links to the team. Carlos Sainz Sr. who is a 4 time Dakar Champion, won it with Audi’s RS Q e-tron machine. So we can put two and two together. And the only non-Red Bull winner in 2023 is a great talent which makes the pitch easier. But is that bet good for the 2x GP winner? Ex-F1 driver Karun Chandhok says otherwise.

Talking on the Sky Sports podcast, Chandhok said, “I don’t think Carlos wants to go to Audi. By the time he gets a contender in 2029, he’ll be 38.” And the very valid point did hit home. Any new team that comes into the sport, even if it is taking over an already existing outfit, takes time to understand and deliver. (Unless you are the magical Brawn GP)

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The Audi option doesn’t seem great for two reasons; 1. There will be a year-long gap and that is the most undesirable. 2. What Mr. Chandhok said. Keeping these two aspects in mind, what is the next best option for him?

What is the best option for Carlos Sainz?

FOURTEEN drivers will be out of contract this year. Writing this only made me excited for the silly season that is to come. And the most eyes are on who fills the Hamilton-sized hole for the German team. Fernando Alonso to junior driver Kimi Antonelli, everyone is eyeing that precious seat. Jumping on the bandwagon, Chandhok suggests the seat can be Carlos’ if his camp makes the right pitch.

READ MORE: Toto Wolff: Nico Rosberg Abruptly Leaving Was a “Bigger Surprise” Than Lewis Hamilton’s Ferrari Bombshell

Where do you think Sainz will end up?

Editorial Disclaimer: The views expressed are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of EssentiallySports.