Formula 1 has overlooked Carlos Sainz’s value and quality according to Sainz Sr.
The elder Sainz, a legendary figure in motorsport, has voiced concerns regarding the perceived undervaluation of his son’s abilities and achievements within the highly competitive realm of Formula 1.
The chatter about Carlos Sainz’s value and quality comes at a pivotal point in his career as he prepares to transition from Ferrari to Williams for the 2025 F1 season, a move that many see as a step back despite his impressive track record.
Sainz Jr. made his Formula 1 debut in 2015 with the Toro Rosso team, which was then Red Bull Racing’s junior outfit. During his initial years, he was alongside Max Verstappen who has since ascended to become one of the sport’s most dominant figures.
While the Spanish driver has carved out a respectable career with multiple race wins and podium finishes including recent victories with Ferrari, he has often been overshadowed by Verstappen’s meteoric rise and success.
This narrative has led many to question whether Carlos Sainz’s value and quality is fully recognized and appreciated by teams and fans alike.
In an interview, Sainz Sr. expressed his belief that his son’s talent as a driver has been consistently underestimated. He pointed out that his accomplishments do not garner the same level of recognition as those of his contemporaries like Verstappen and Lando Norris.
“I don’t think it’s given to him, the value and the quality that he has,” he told El Cafelito.
The elder Sainz articulated that this discrepancy is partly due to timing; he feels that Sainz Jr.’s career has coincided with Verstappen’s rise to prominence, which has inadvertently placed him “in the shade.”
He added: “He also coincides with a given moment with Verstappen. It is a moment when Red Bull chooses Verstappen. He stays a little in the shade.
“Then he ends up driving for Ferrari, which is not easy, imagine being a Ferrari driver, driving for McLaren.”
The situation has become even more complex with Sainz Jr.’s recent departure from Ferrari, where he had established himself as a reliable driver capable of securing victories.
Despite performing well and even winning races after overcoming health challenges, such as an appendectomy shortly before one of his victories, he was replaced by none other than Lewis Hamilton—one of the most successful drivers in the history of the sport.
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Ferrari’s decision has left many puzzled, especially considering that Sainz Jr. was not only competitive but also instrumental in pushing the team forward during his tenure.
Sainz Sr. highlighted that while Ferrari made the decision to sign Hamilton due to his illustrious career and marketability, it does not reflect on Sainz Jr.’s capabilities or contributions to the team.
“I think Carlos’ best version is still to come,” said his father. “That’s my feeling. He’s a driver who takes the steps and gives the feeling that every year he brings out his best version.
“There are drivers who arrive very quickly, give it all and then they go. Carlos keeps improving every year.”
He also remarked on the “perfect storm” of circumstances surrounding this transition, suggesting that while Ferrari was satisfied with Carlos’ performance, they could not pass up the opportunity to bring Hamilton into their fold.
“I wouldn’t describe it as the Scuderia behaving badly,” Sainz Sr explained. “The circumstances of the perfect storm have arisen. Ferrari was happy with Carlos, but the possibility appeared because Hamilton himself produced it.”
As Carlos Sainz Jr. transitions to Williams for the 2025 F1 season, there are mixed feelings about his switch to the back-of-the-grid outfit.
Some view it as a chance for him to rebuild and demonstrate his skills in a different environment, while others see it as a regression from competing at the front of the grid with Ferrari to fighting for points at Williams—a team historically known for its struggles in recent years.
Despite these challenges, Sainz Jr. remains optimistic about his future at Williams and is determined to make a huge impact.
