Carlos Sainz reflects on Red Bull snub: ‘I don’t understand why they didn’t sign me’
Carlos Sainz Questions Red Bull’s Decision to Pass on Him for Verstappen Partnership
Carlos Sainz, now with Williams for the 2024 Formula 1 season, continues to question why Red Bull passed on signing him as Max Verstappen’s teammate in their lineup. Amidst a turbulent year in driver decisions for Red Bull, Sainz revealed his thoughts on the matter while speaking on the High Performance podcast, expressing confusion over the decision-making process that led to Liam Lawson and ultimately Yuki Tsunoda taking the coveted seat alongside the reigning world champion.
Heading into the new season, Sainz was already aware that his time at Ferrari would conclude with Lewis Hamilton replacing him. Behind the scenes, the Spaniard was involved in discussions with Red Bull, which was contemplating options for a struggling Sergio Pérez. Following Pérez’s departure, Lawson occupied the second seat for a brief stint before being replaced by Tsunoda, who has also faced challenges in keeping up with Verstappen.
Sainz admitted he remains baffled by the team's decision, particularly due to the reported concerns over the lingering tensions between the Verstappen and Sainz camps dating back to their rookie season together in 2015 at Red Bull's junior team, Toro Rosso.
“The only thing I can say is I genuinely get on well with Max,” Sainz explained. “This is what people don’t see from the outside. Like, we had a rivalry in our first year in Formula 1 at Toro Rosso, but it was a relatively healthy rivalry in terms of him and me, the way we used to go about racing. And now we get on really well.
“So, if that’s the reason, I don’t understand why they wouldn’t want me next to Max—because I think we would actually be a very strong pairing in Formula 1.”
Family Dynamics Reportedly Played a Role
While Sainz emphasized his strong rapport with Verstappen today, sources involved in Red Bull’s decision process last year told reporters the real issue revolved around the dynamic between their fathers: Jos Verstappen and Carlos Sainz Sr. The potential tension between the two families was cited as a key factor in why Red Bull opted not to offer Sainz the second seat.
Since joining Williams, Sainz has not shied away from comparing his ability to handle the teammate dynamic with some of Formula 1's best drivers. He noted how his experiences alongside Charles Leclerc, Lando Norris, Nico Hülkenberg, and now Alex Albon have prepared him for the challenges of competing against top-level talent.
“I’ve been teammates with Charles, with Lando, with Nico—very quick guys, and probably the best in the sport," Sainz said. "Now Alex is incredibly fast also, and it just makes me want to be up against the best still. I know I can take it, and I know I’ve been successful in the past."
Facing the Verstappen Challenge
Sainz also delved into the difficulties associated with being Verstappen’s teammate, recognizing the reigning champion’s dominance in the sport but firmly believing he could rise to the level needed to compete.
“I think everyone’s having a really tough time being Max’s teammate. I can only say that when I was Max’s teammate, I didn’t have this tough time," he asserted. "I was obviously incredibly surprised with how quick he was, with how he's an insane driver. I mean, he’s going to go out to be one of the best ever in history, if he’s not already one.
“But that first year together, since then, has given me the confidence to know I can be up against anyone.”
Speculation and Reflection
As Sainz settles into his new role at Williams this season, his comments will likely fuel speculation about what could have been. While Red Bull ultimately went in a different direction, Sainz remains steadfast in his belief that he had the talent, mindset, and experience to be a strong complement to Verstappen’s incredible speed and dominance. Only time will tell if the decision will prove to be a lost opportunity for Red Bull.
Up Next
