Carlos Sainz's father, Carlos Sainz Sr., has addressed recent rumors suggesting that unresolved tensions between him and Jos Verstappen could have hindered his son's potential Red Bull deal earlier this year.
According to the speculation, friction dating back to their sons' days at Toro Rosso reportedly interfered with Sainz Jr.'s chances with Red Bull, but Sainz Sr. firmly denies any ongoing issues with Verstappen's father.
Responding to these rumors, rally legend Sainz Sr. told Marca, "There is no bad relationship between Jos Verstappen and me and what's more, this year he is making his first steps in rallies, and we have spoken on different occasions about rallies – the notes, the car." He clarified, "The relationship is cordial."
Meanwhile, Carlos Sainz Jr., 30, is preparing for a new chapter at Williams for the 2025 season, following his recent victory at the Mexican GP and Ferrari's evident return to dominant form. Reflecting on his own role in Ferrari's improvement throughout 2024, Sainz Jr. noted, "We had a difficult mid-season period. I was very critical and openly expressed those problems and the things I didn't like about that package."
The Spaniard admitted to mixed emotions about leaving Ferrari at a time when the team is showing strong potential. "We are creating a very strong team now, and it makes me sad that everything ends for me at the end of the year," he said, adding, "Maybe 2025 will be the year and I won't be here, but hopefully we will win the constructors' title this year."
Sainz Sr., meanwhile, expressed understanding of his son's bittersweet departure from Ferrari, stating, "Formula 1 has its circumstances, its difficulties, its times. You have to respect that. But I think Carlos is excited, even very excited about the Williams project."
When questioned about Lewis Hamilton joining Ferrari and his tendency to time moves perfectly, seemingly after others do all the hard groundwork, Sainz Sr. reportedly "laughed out loud but there is no response," according to the Marca transcript.
