P1racenews AI automatic summary:
Mercedes and Red Bull are each set to reject F1 free agent Carlos Sainz. And Mercedes’ logic is much sounder.
Fresh off his fourth Formula 1 podium in seven attempts in 2024, Carlos Sainz faces the harsh reality of no team on the grid having a spot for him. Ferrari’s decision to go with Lewis Hamilton over Sainz leaves him with limited options at Audi/Sauber or Williams. Despite Sainz’s potential to score more points for Mercedes in 2025 compared to Kimi Antonelli, the team seems to favor the young talent for long-term success. On the other hand, Red Bull opting to extend Sergio Perez’s contract raises questions about their future strategy, especially with Max Verstappen potentially eyeing an exit in the coming years. The decision-making of both teams reflects a complex blend of short-term gains versus long-term aspirations in the competitive world of Formula 1.
