F1 News
Wolff patient: 'That's why I'm waiting with a second driver'
- Cas van de Kleut
Carlos Sainz has reportedly been given an ultimatum by Audi to make a decision for next season. However, the Spaniard is said to be waiting to see how the situation surrounding Verstappen plays out. With this, it seems for now that he will not go to Mercedes at least. Toto Wolff told media present, including GPblog, that he is waiting to see how the driver market develops.
Sainz is one of the most sought-after drivers at the moment. He has made a great start to the 2024 season, with his victory in Australia being the highlight. Audi has made it clear on many occasions that the Spaniard is top priority at the team, but the situation surrounding a possible Verstappen leaving Red Bull leaves the Ferrari driver waiting. Meanwhile, there is said to be talk of an ultimatum, giving Audi Sainz until the end of May to decide. Otherwise, the team will move on to another driver.
Wolff on the situation with Sainz
Wolff also sees that Sainz is wanted by the other teams. The Mercedes team boss, therefore, praises the Ferrari driver: "He's been a Ferrari race winner in the last two years and someone with huge experience."
Yet for now, Wolff is in no hurry to make a decision on who will be George Russell's teammate next season: "I'm prepared to compromise on certain decisions and to wait long how the situation pans out over the summer and into autumn with George. We have a great driver that is with us and fantastic. And then let's see who's going to be his teammate. But we don't need to take this decision now."