The “Silly Season” in Formula 1 started earlier than usual this year. Max Verstappen is primarily responsible, but Carlos Sainz now also appears in a prominent supporting role. Apparently the Williams driver is currently high on the list of candidates for the future at three racing teams.
The 2026 Formula 1 season is only three races old, but the rumor mill is already churning hotter than usual. The main reason is Max Verstappen, who is not enjoying the new premier class and has been linked to a change and/or even a resignation for weeks.
According to the Spanish sports newspaper “Marca”, this is exactly where Carlos Sainz comes into play. The Spaniard’s contract with Williams only runs until the end of the season. The 31-year-old wants to leave it at that for now, although he feels comfortable with the British team under James Vowles.
It is said that the Spaniard wants to keep the doors open for a change. Especially then, Red Bull Racing should come knocking. According to “Marca”, Sainz is one of the drivers chosen by Red Bull bosses as a possible replacement for Verstappen, along with Pierre Gasly and Alex Albon.
Two other Formula 1 teams are thinking about Sainz
But that’s not all: The sports newspaper also writes that Sainz is currently high on the list of candidates at Aston Martin. There should also be a trace to Audi. Both teams have drivers in their ranks, Fernando Alonso (44) and Nico Hülkenberg (38), whose remaining time in the cockpit is limited. Their contracts also expire at the end of 2026. Will Sainz take advantage of this opportunity?
According to “Marca” this is still up in the air. It is said that the Spaniard first wants to wait and see how the situation at Williams develops. After three races, one thing is clear: the situation is worrying, but not yet hopeless. However, just two points for the team from three races and a sprint are clearly not enough to convince a driver like Sainz of a successful future.
