Debate | 'Carlos Sainz should leave Ferrari as soon as possible'

Once they were at Toro Rosso together. Max Verstappen and Carlos Sainz were extremely evenly matched that one year, although it should not go unmentioned that the Dutchman is three years younger than the Spaniard and had hardly any experience in formula cars at the time. Eventually, both drivers joined a top team; Verstappen at Red Bull Racing and Sainz at Ferrari. The comparison ends there further: Verstappen has already won 43 Grands Prix, while Sainz only managed to take one to his name.

Ferrari not competitive

While Verstappen continues in his record hunt, it seems a miracle will have to happen for Sainz to win another race anytime soon. His Ferrari is competitive in qualifying, but on Sunday the Italian seems to be running backwards. Last weekend at Silverstone was a striking example of this. Sainz finished in tenth place, one spot behind teammate Leclerc.

During qualifying and the race, irritation was noticeable among Sainz, who seemed to feel that Leclerc was favoured by the team. That won't be a strange thought, as no doubt more people will feel that Ferrari primarily serves Leclerc's interests. Whether that will ever change? It seems unlikely. Therefore, wouldn't it be better for Sainz - should the opportunity arise - to leave Ferrari as soon as possible?

Audi an option for Sainz?

Indeed, at the moment there is no place at another top team, if they would want to contract him at all. Perhaps he could join Sauber, now Alfa Romeo, which will become Audi's factory team from 2026. Sainz would probably then drive around in the rear for a few seasons and only return to the top in a few years (for him, hopefully). On the other hand, continuing on the current path at Ferrari also seems to make little sense.

GPblog therefore presents readers with this statement: 'Carlos Sainz should leave Ferrari as soon as possible.' Vote in the poll and give your opinion in the comments.