The announcement of Lewis Hamilton joining Ferrari for the 2025 season meant Carlos Sainz had to vacate his seat at the Italian team. Although this move might have caused disappointment, experts suggest that the split between Sainz and Ferrari was not acrimonious. Scott Mitchell-Malm, an F1 analyst, has indicated that Sainz’s ties with the team remain intact, making a potential return possible.
Joining Ferrari in 2021, Sainz had a strong rookie season where he outperformed teammate Charles Leclerc in the driver standings. However, the introduction of the new ground-effect regulations shifted the competitive balance in favor of Leclerc in subsequent years. Despite this shift, the points gap between the two drivers stayed relatively close, and Sainz developed friendly and respectful relations within the Maranello team community.
Scott Mitchell-Malm explained on The Race F1 podcast that despite some public perception of division among fans, Sainz and his close associates continue to have good interactions with Ferrari staff. He stressed:
“I think [Carlos] Sainz would actually be more welcome back at Ferrari than some people think, because I know there is a kind of division amongst the fanbases, and there is this belief that Sainz and his entourage were toxic, and he has left on bad terms.” (21:20 onwards)
“But, I have literally seen both Carlos and people around him in his camp walk past various people in and around Ferrari hospitality and the garage and stuff like that. And he’s incredibly high thought of within that organisation; I think he would be welcome back there.”
After being edged out by Hamilton’s arrival, Sainz chose to join Williams on a multi-year deal, stepping away from Ferrari but maintaining professional ties with the Italian outfit.
Sainz Keeps Door Open for a Possible Ferrari Comeback
Last season, Carlos Sainz was among the select group of Formula 1 drivers who won multiple races, marking it as his most successful year yet. However, his current performance with Williams has been hampered by the team‘s challenging midfield status. Coming into the summer break, Sainz has collected only 16 championship points, reflecting the limitations of his car in competing for top finishes.
Despite working to improve the Williams program, Sainz has not dismissed the possibility of returning to Ferrari in the future. Speaking on the Beyond the Grid podcast, he acknowledged the chance of a reunion, though not immediately likely:
“Yeah, why not? I don’t see why not. At the same time, I cannot see it happening anytime soon… So if I’m in F1 for as long as that, who tells you that in these next 10 years, Ferrari might need my services again in the future?”
Currently, Sainz is ranked 16th in the drivers’ championship with his most recent points finish occurring at the Canadian Grand Prix, reflecting a difficult season so far.
Implications of a Potential Return to Ferrari for Carlos Sainz
Should a Ferrari seat become vacant in coming years, Sainz’s maintained goodwill within the team could accelerate his return. His solid racing record and consistent professionalism keep him in contention as a reliable option for the Italian squad. Despite the intense competition for seats in Formula 1, maintaining relationships with leading teams can prove crucial for a driver’s career longevity.
For Ferrari, welcoming back a familiar and respected driver like Sainz may provide a stable choice amid ongoing team changes. For Sainz, a return to Maranello could offer an opportunity to rejoin a front-running team and revive his quest for podium finishes and victories.
