BELGIUM: The Italian media has been buzzing with speculation as the Formula 1 driver transfer season approaches, and the latest rumours suggest Alpine might be eyeing a potential move for Carlos Sainz.
The current Ferrari driver’s contract with the Scuderia expires at the end of 2024, and it is believed that he has asked for similar conditions to those offered to his teammate, Charles Leclerc.
The rumours about Leclerc’s contract extension with Ferrari have been making headlines recently. Although nothing has been officially confirmed by either the Italian team or the Monegasque driver, insiders suggest it could be a “2+3” deal, securing two years with the option for a further three.
With such a long-term commitment in place, the Italian media has begun speculating about the future of Carlos Sainz at Ferrari.
Reports from Funo Analisi Tecnica claim that negotiations between Sainz and Ferrari are ongoing, and his father, Carlos Sainz Sr., is reportedly exploring alternative possibilities should the talks with Ferrari not pan out. One of these options is believed to be a potential move to Alpine.
The French team is currently undergoing a transitional phase, experiencing changes in top-level staff. Both Esteban Ocon and Pierre Gasly will have to renegotiate their contracts in 2024, and there is a possibility that one or both of them might be replaced.
This situation could open up an opportunity for Carlos Sainz to make the switch to Alpine, where he could find the platform to showcase his talent and potential.
Adding to the intrigue is the suggestion that Mattia Binotto, who previously signed Sainz to Ferrari, could be a potential target for Alpine as a long-term team leader. After the departure of Otmar Szafnauer, the team has appointed an interim boss, Alpine vice-president of motorsport Bruno Famin, but a permanent solution is needed.
Binotto’s experience leading a team and his past association with Carlos Sainz might make him a suitable candidate for Alpine’s ambitions. However, Famin has downplayed any immediate move to sign Binotto, indicating that they are still assessing the situation and their priorities.
As talks and speculations continue to swirl in the Formula 1 paddock, fans and experts are eagerly waiting to see how the driver lineup and team structures will shape up for the next season.
With driver contracts often being subject to last-minute changes and surprising announcements, the F1 community remains on the edge of their seats, anticipating any major moves that might shake up the grid.
Until any official confirmation or announcements are made, the future of Carlos Sainz and Alpine remains uncertain.
However, with the combination of skill, experience, and potential on offer, a potential partnership between Sainz and Alpine could be an exciting prospect for the Formula 1 world. Fans will have to wait and watch as the driver transfer drama unfolds over the coming months.
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