Sainz replaces Vettel as F1 drivers' union head

Carlos Sainz named as director of Grand Prix Drivers' Association.

Carlos Sainz has officially taken on the role of director within the Grand Prix Drivers' Association (GPDA), stepping into the position left vacant by retired four-time Formula 1 world champion, Sebastian Vettel. The trade union for F1 drivers made the announcement on Sunday.

The 30-year-old Spaniard, who previously raced for Ferrari and is currently competing with Williams, brings a wealth of experience to the GPDA board. Throughout his decade-long career in Formula 1, Sainz has achieved four Grand Prix victories and has driven for five different teams. He now joins Mercedes driver George Russell as a director.

Sebastian Vettel, the German driver who concluded his illustrious F1 career at the end of 2022, has passed the torch to Sainz. Sainz expressed his enthusiasm for his new role in a statement shared by the GPDA on Instagram.

"I am passionate about my sport and think we drivers have a responsibility to do all we can to work with the stakeholders to forward the sport in many aspects," Sainz said. "So I'm very happy and proud to do my part by taking on the directors' role in the GPDA."

The GPDA, which is dedicated to representing the interests of the drivers, also includes legal consultant Anastasia Fowle and former F1 driver Alex Wurz on its board. Wurz, who serves as the chairman, welcomed Sainz to the leadership team with open arms.

"We are delighted to welcome Carlos as a GPDA director. He has been an active and engaged member of the GPDA for several years and we sincerely appreciate his commitment in stepping up to this vital role," Wurz remarked.

Sainz's appointment is seen as a strategic move to further strengthen the union’s role in the constantly evolving landscape of Formula 1. As the new director, Sainz is expected to play a critical role in the ongoing dialogue between the drivers and the sport's key stakeholders.

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