Formula 1: Lewis Hamilton’s Move to Ferrari and the Prospects Ahead for Carlos Sainz

Just as Formula 1 fans were beginning to believe the 2024 campaign wouldn't bring any 'silly season' surprises, the sport again lived up to its tradition, unveiling a bombshell comparable to its past off-seasons.

The headlines across numerous media outlets have carried some variation of: 'Lewis Hamilton to join Ferrari in 2025'.

It was an announcement that seemed inconceivable, even for the creators of the most dramatic Formula 1 simulator video games.

Yet here it is: the seven-time world champion, the 39-year-old maestro who initially dazzled with McLaren and later dominated with Mercedes, is bidding farewell to the Brackley-based team in favour of eternal rivals, Scuderia Ferrari.

Hamilton's transfer to the prestigious Maranello team marks the potential end of Carlos Sainz's stint, a driver who has undeniably shone brightly for the Italian outfit.

The 29-year-old, who made the move from McLaren in 2021, has consistently demonstrated leadership qualities, often competing favourably with Ferrari's favoured driver, Charles Leclerc.

The news deals a significant blow to the Sainz family, leaving their son, who defied the odds by securing the only non-Red Bull Racing driver victory in 2023, potentially without a seat for the upcoming 2025 season.

In addition to the personal implications, the announcement also signals a halt to ongoing contract negotiations between Sainz and Ferrari for a possible extension.

As the Spaniard's future becomes increasingly uncertain, Sports Brief examines a variety of options the talented driver might consider to prolong his illustrious career in motorsport.

Carlos Sainz’s future options in F1

A switch to Mercedes?

A switch to Mercedes presents an enticing prospect for Sainz - a team that not only has the financial muscle to support his bid for a drivers' championship but also offers the tantalising opportunity for revenge against Ferrari if such a desire arises.

The Brackley-based outfit could find solace in banking on the Spaniard, who showcased remarkable racing knowledge and strategic prowess during his stints at McLaren and Ferrari, often causing Mercedes to miss out on victories. The unforgettable episode at the Marina Bay circuit in Singapore in 2023 serves as a glaring testament to his impact.

In contemplating potential driver pairings, Toto Wolff and the German team's hierarchy might lean towards the idea of assembling a seasoned duo with Sainz and George Russell.

This preference could be in contrast to pairing Russell with Mick Schumacher, whose performance at the Haas F1 team was largely underwhelming in past years. Choosing the experienced combination of Sainz and Russell could be a strategic move to fortify Mercedes' position in the competitive Formula 1 landscape.

A potential return to Red Bull?

The 29-year-old previously served as a driver for the Red Bull Racing B-team, Toro Rosso, from 2015 to 2017. During this period, the Spaniard shared the team with first Max Verstappen and then Daniel Kvyat before making a pivotal switch to Renault.

Sainz's departure from Toro Rosso stemmed from frustration at not being promptly promoted to the main team. Armed with a wealth of experience now and with uncertainty surrounding Sergio Perez's future, the prospect of reuniting with Verstappen emerges as a compelling option for Sainz.

Such a move not only reunites the former teammates but also significantly enhances Sainz's chances of contending for the coveted drivers' championship title.

Audi or Aston Martin?

Sainz could consider two intriguing options for his future: stepping into the role at Aston Martin as a potential replacement for the widely criticised Lance Stroll or exploring the possibility of joining Audi, contingent upon their admission into Formula 1 by the FIA.

Aston Martin displayed significant promise in the preceding season despite facing a mid-season decline. However, the Silverstone-based team concluded the campaign on a positive note with notable podium appearances, signalling a potential resurgence.

In contrast, Audi is actively pursuing entry into the Formula 1 grid. It is widely recognised that if the FIA approves, the German manufacturer's engines will pose a formidable challenge to the current grid leaders, including Red Bull.

Explore other racing series

Sainz may consider diversifying into other racing series, following in the footsteps of his father, Carlo Sainz Sr., a four-time Dakar Rally champion.

The 29-year-old could explore Formula E, a series steadily gaining popularity among F1 enthusiasts, or venture into different forms of endurance racing.

Nevertheless, as the upcoming season draws near, it is imperative to note that discussions between Sainz and his team will play a crucial role in determining the most strategic move for the Spanish driver in the immediate future.