P1racenews AI automatic summary:
Red Bull boss Christian Horner has revealed that “options remain open” with Carlos Sainz, despite choosing not to sign him to complete its F1 line-up in 2025.
Carlos Sainz became available on the market after Ferrari chose not to extend his contract due to acquiring Lewis Hamilton almost a year ago. Red Bull and Mercedes both considered Sainz, but ultimately Red Bull opted to promote Liam Lawson to partner Max Verstappen this season. Red Bull’s advisor Helmut Marko advised Lawson not to aim to beat Verstappen and instead provide “strength in depth.” Sainz acknowledged that he may not fit the type of driver Red Bull currently needs and that he doesn’t see himself as a lost opportunity by not waiting for Perez’s situation to develop. Sainz signed a multi-term deal with Williams and emphasized the competitiveness in the Formula 1 market. Red Bull confirmed that Sainz will remain on their radar for potential future opportunities.
