De La Rosa warns against McLaren move for Sainz

Carlos Sainz Jr. is being linked with a 2019 switch to McLaren, but Pedro de la Rosa has warned against the move.

Former Formula One driver Pedro de la Rosa has issued a warning to Renault driver Carlos Sainz Jr. about moving to McLaren if the opportunity arises next season.

Sainz's future remains uncertain and has a lot to do with what Daniel Ricciardo does at Red Bull.

The Spanish driver is on loan and contracted to Red Bull, but it seems Renault are looking for alternatives to Sainz as they wish to confirm their driver line-up as early as possible for next season.

McLaren are reportedly interested in Sainz, to complete an all Spanish line-up with Fernando Alonso.

People in Spain may consider that a dream team, but de la Rosa isn't sure about that.  

"A dream? I think it would be better if they were not together," de la Rosa told Cadena Ser radio.

"Being Fernando's team-mate is very difficult, so I prefer that someone other than Carlos suffers. I would prefer if Carlos gathers two or three more years of experience and then face a beast like Fernando."

The former F1 driver believes that Sainz has done enough for a place in the sport next season and he thoroughly deserves his spot.

"If Renault makes the mistake of letting Carlos go, he has still earned his place in F1," de la Rosa added.