F1 News

Magnussen blames Sainz for contract backlog

Magnussen blames Sainz: 'He's the cork in the bottle!'

20 June at 14:28
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  • Matt Gretton
  • Editor-in-Chief

Kevin Magnussen openly blamed Carlos Sainz for causing a backlog in the contract announcements and deals for the 2025 Formula 1 season. Magnussen is one of many F1 drivers hoping to secure a seat for the upcoming season. The Danish reveals that more deals will fall into place once Sainz makes up his mind.

Sainz admitted he has received an offer from all teams with a vacant seat for the 2025 season after being ousted from Ferrari due to Lewis Hamilton's deal. It seems that his likely destination is either Williams or Audi. Magnussen was asked during the press conference about what's causing the pause in silly season? "What is the cork in the [silly season] bottle?"

"He is the cork," Magnussen said as he looked across to Sainz with a slight smile on his face. "Carlos is the cork in the bottle. I think a lot of guys are waiting for him to make a move, and then, eventually, he's going to have to make a move. Eventually, all the other pieces of the puzzle will fall. So, that's the truth of that."

When will Sainz make a decision?

Fortunately for Magnussen, he won't have to wait long for movement. Ahead of the Grand Prix in his home country, Sainz was again asked for updates. He confirmed it won't be long before a decision is made. He suggested it has taken up a lot of space in his thoughts, and he wants to decide soon as a result.

Magnussen's future at Haas is uncertain. Reports during the Canadian Grand Prix weekend suggested Oliver Bearman has already signed for the American team, but an official announcement has not yet confirmed the news. Haas boss Ayao Komatsu has confirmed he wants a blend of youth and experience in his driver line-up next year.