Horner: Sainz could replace Ricciardo

Christian Horner has revealed that Red Bull still have plans to call up Carlos Sainz to the team despite allowing him to drive for Renault in 2018.

Daniel Ricciardo’s contract runs out at the end of this season, and Red Bull are set to start contract negotiations with the Australian when the season starts.

Sainz has spent three years in F1 with Red Bull’s junior team, Toro Rosso, but was allowed to race the last four Grands Prix with Renault in 2017.

Sainz partnered current Red Bull driver Verstappen in 2015 but was comfortably outscored by the Dutchman.

However, Red Bull rate Sainz highly, so it would not be a surprise if the Spaniard was to join the team should Ricciardo move on.

Horner spoke to CNN and said: “Our intention is to have him (Ricciardo) with us in the future.

“But if that isn’t possible, we have other good alternatives.

“We have good drivers in the junior programme and although he’s with Renault now, we still have Carlos Sainz under contract.

“Lewis’ contract also expires, it’s hard to see him leaving Mercedes, but we never say never.”

Surely Hamilton is a bit too optimistic from Horner, but stranger moves have happened…