Carlos Sainz could be eyeing a potential Red Bull seat for 2025, with speculation growing around Sergio Perez’s future at the team. This theory is fueled by claims made by former F1 driver Martin Donnelly, who suggests that Sainz might have an exit clause in his contract with Williams, potentially allowing him to move to one of the sport’s top teams like Red Bull or Mercedes.
Despite Sergio Perez having signed a multi-year contract extension with Red Bull earlier in 2024, his future remains uncertain due to ongoing speculation. Perez has struggled with form this season, with no podium finishes since April’s Chinese Grand Prix and sitting in P8 in the Drivers’ Championship standings. As Red Bull also slips to third in the Constructors’ Championship, the conversation around Perez’s future has only intensified.
Could Carlos Sainz Replace Perez at Red Bull?
Donnelly, who has raced in 13 F1 races, has urged Red Bull to consider bringing in Carlos Sainz. He argues that Sainz, who is currently winning races with Ferrari, has the experience and consistency that Perez has lacked this season. “Sainz has the experience,” Donnelly said, pointing out that Sainz is currently delivering strong performances in a car that excels in qualifying but has struggled in race conditions at times.
Even though Sainz has committed to a long-term deal with Williams after his enforced exit from Ferrari due to the arrival of Lewis Hamilton in F1 2025, Donnelly believes this contract doesn’t prevent Red Bull from making a move for the Spanish driver.
Exit Clause in Sainz’s Williams Contract?
Carlos Sainz has a clause in his Williams contract that could allow him to leave if a top team like Red Bull or Mercedes makes an offer. Donnelly believes that such a clause could pave the way for Sainz to return to a top-tier team and join Red Bull as they aim to strengthen their driver lineup for the future.
Donnelly further emphasized that Sainz would be a strong addition to the Red Bull team, providing a level of consistency and skill that rival teams like McLaren and Ferrari are benefiting from. “If I’m looking for my driver and I want my car in the right area of being developed going forward, [I’m taking Sainz],” Donnelly concluded.
As Red Bull evaluates its options for the 2025 season, the possibility of Carlos Sainz joining the team could be one to watch closely in the coming months.
