Carlos Sainz Sr. Denies Rift with Verstappen’s Father

Carlos Sainz Sr. dispels rumours linking a Verstappen feud to his son’s missed Red Bull opportunity.

Carlos Sainz’s father has addressed rumours suggesting that the Verstappen camp could be the reason why the Spanish driver’s negotiations with Red Bull fell through earlier this year.

As Ferrari currently leads in Formula 1, Mexico GP winner Sainz finds himself pushed out of the Maranello-based team and will have to settle for Williams from 2025 onwards.

Sainz is striving to stay positive.

“Mexico reminded me that when I have everything under control and enjoy weekends like that, I prove to myself that I can be a world champion one day,” he told Interlagos. “I just need to keep reminding myself of that and stay focused, as it will put me in a good position in the future.”

Sainz will be replaced at Ferrari by seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton, who hinted on Thursday that he may have made a wise decision given Ferrari’s current performance levels.

Sainz also claims some credit for Ferrari’s upward trajectory throughout the 2024 season.

“We had a tough period mid-season. I was very critical and openly voiced my concerns about the issues and aspects I disliked in this package. We’re building a very strong team now, and it saddens me that it will all end for me at the end of the year. Maybe I won’t be around in 2025, but I hope we win the Constructors’ Championship this year.”

Many find it unfortunate that Sainz, currently in top form, has to leave Ferrari and settle for a midfield role in 2025. Rumours around the paddock suggest Sainz’s talks with Red Bull fell apart due to a clash between Jos Verstappen and Carlos Sainz Senior.

The dispute reportedly dates back to when both drivers were teammates at Toro Rosso.

“We must respect all opinions,” said Carlos Sainz Sr., “but it’s absolutely not true.”

“There is no bad blood between Jos Verstappen and me. In fact, this year, as he’s taking his first steps in rallying, we’ve spoken on several occasions about rallies – notes, the car.”

“The relationship is cordial,” added Sainz Sr., himself a world rally legend.

Sainz Sr. takes a philosophical view on his son’s move back to Williams next year.

“Formula 1 has its own circumstances, challenges, and moments. That’s something we must respect. But I think Carlos is excited – very excited, even – about the Williams project, and I also know he’s eager to get back to a position where he can fight for race wins as soon as possible.”

“What he said is true; it’s a bit bittersweet. After these four years at Ferrari, there’s some frustration about not being able to enjoy that position next year. Because if Ferrari continues on this path, they’ll start as one of the favourites.”