The fresh drama in the world of Formula 1 instigated by Lewis Hamilton has affected a lot of otherwise stagnant pieces on the silly season chess board. Carlos Sainz is one of the most affected pieces in this game of F1 chess. From expecting to continue his future and waiting to start discussions about a contract extension, the Ferrari driver has been made aware of his non-existent future with the team in the most unexpected manner. Sainz was completely unaware of the developments in the background in Maranello and the drama unfolded right in front of him, publicly catching everyone off guard.

However, now that all decisions are final and Hamilton and Ferrari announced their partnership from 2025 onwards, Sainz will have to take his talents elsewhere. In this piece, we will look at all possible destinations for the Spaniard on the grid with the majority of the drivers running out of a contract in 2025, opening up a lot of options. Let’s discuss where can the two-time race winner end up in 2025.

Carlos Sainz to Mercedes?

Sainz to Mercedes would be an easy swap. However, will the Spaniard want to make that swap is the real question? Let’s look at the facts! The team has been abysmal with their failed interpretation of the 2022 regulations. They could not make any significant changes before the 2023 season. However, the ones the changes they introduced in the middle of the season put them on the right track but not enough to get them a win in 2023. On the other hand, Sainz was the only race winner in 2023 not in the Red Bull overalls.

F1 Rumors: Surprising Clause in Carlos Sainz’s Ferrari Contract; Renewal Depend on Races Won in 2024

Mercedes has also lost some important figures in the engineering department in the past couple of seasons to rivals. However, their reinstatement of James Allison does seem like a step in the right direction. So even if Mercedes is an option, Sainz can wait and observe before deciding to switch to Brackley from Maranello.

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Sainz to Aston Martin?

Sainz to Aston Martin would be a move as shocking as Hamilton to Ferrari. However, the shock factor will come from within the team if they decide to finally cut their losses and put their superior car in the experienced and capable hands of Carlos Sainz. We are talking about Aston Martin finally getting rid of Lance Stroll.

We truly believe the Canadian is still part of the premier class because of his father. However, after the obvious difference in capabilities highlighted by Fernando Alonso in the AMR23, Lawrence Stroll needs to make the tough decision to replace his son with someone capable. Putting Sainz in the other seat and partnering him with his countryman won’t be a bad option especially with Aston Martin aiming to win championships in the future. The current investment in the team is a positive sign and Sainz would not mind leading in the new era at Aston Martin.

Sainz to Red Bull?

Back to the Red Bull family? We wouldn’t put it past him! The Spaniard already has a good relationship with his former teammate Max Verstappen and with the current superiority of the Red Bull car, no one would think twice before joining the reigning champions. There is a possibility as well with the contract of Sergio Perez expiring at the end of the season.

Moreover, Perez put his future in doubt with his poor run of form in 2023 and his bosses admitting the Mexican will have to pull up his socks to secure his future with the team. We have a feeling even if Perez can perform at a high level in the coming season, the Red Bull hierarchy has had enough of the Mexican’s tall claims and inconsistent outputs. This gives Sainz an opening to join Red Bull.

Sainz to Audi?

Sainz to Audi has long been in the rumor mills and perhaps the move that will make the most sense for the Spaniard and his future. The Sauber run team will become Audi in 2024 and we are all aware of Audi’s output in any motorsports competition they dip their toes in. The German automaker has a reputation to uphold and we suspect they will be taking the circus by storm. Sainz can easily replace any of the two out-of-contract Sauber drivers and place himself in the right position to lead the team in the future with the Audi rebranding.

The Spaniard’s father, who has already won a race with an Audi-powered car in 2024, also attests to the team’s capabilities. In fact, he’s been talking to his son about a possible future with the German team as well. He confessed, “Of course, at Carlos’s house, with me being in the Audi family, it is logical that we talk and exchange opinions about what the Audi team can be in the future.”

WATCH THIS STORY: Is Carlos Sainz Looking to Move away from Ferrari?

With all these options available for 2025, no one can predict where the Spaniard will end up. However, our best guess is Sauber in 2025 before he can put on the Audi overalls. If not, we will know soon as Sainz admitted, he will be revealing his plans in due course. Let’s wait and watch!

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