Horner: Sainz is a great driver but not part of our plans for next year
Christian Horner has clarified claims that Red Bull are considering Carlos Sainz to replace Sergio Perez next season.Red Bull team boss Christian Horner has categorically denied rumours that Red Bull is making a move to sign Carlos Sainz, despite his signing for Williams.
Sainz found himself in the driver market on February 1 when it was announced that Lewis Hamilton would be joining Ferrari next season.
As the months progressed, the 30-year-old pilot’s name was linked to many teams, including Red Bull and Mercedes, but Red Bull signed Sergio Perez to a 1+1-year contract with a guarantee for next year and an option for 2026.
But Perez’s form has taken a nosedive since finishing fourth in the Miami Grand Prix, with him collecting just 48 points from the last 15 races and just 8 points from the last five.
This has led to increased speculation that Red Bull will make a change after the season, with RB duo Liam Lawson and Yuki Tsunoda, as well as Williams’ Franco Colapinto, also being mentioned as a contender for Perez’s seat.
Colapinto, who was brought to Williams after the Dutch Grand Prix to replace Logan Sargeant, attracted attention with his performances. However, Sainz’s agreement with Williams to race alongside Albon means there is no place for Colapinto in the team next season.
Williams were said to be prepared to terminate Sainz’s deal and allow him to join Red Bull in order to keep Colapinto, given Sainz’s two wins this season and his successful performances.
Responding to the claim on Talksport, Horner did not initially deny the rumour, but said: “Look, there is always a lot of speculation in the Formula 1 paddock.”
“And you know, Carlos Sainz will be a Williams driver next year. He is a great driver, he had a big win in Mexico recently and I think he will be very good for Williams.”
Asked if Sainz could be considered for Red Bull, Horner said: “Carlos is committed to Williams and will not be part of our plans for next year.”
