Discussions are intensifying between Alpine and Sainz

After the rain comes the sunshine? This work by the Countess de Ségur takes on its full meaning today in view of Alpine’s current situation. Weakened a few weeks ago following the clash between the two drivers in Monaco and the departure of Esteban Ocon, who has been with the team since 2020, the team based in Enstone and Viry-Châtillon seems to be on the right track, notably with the possibility of a high-profile recruit in the form of Carlos Sainz.

The Carlos Sainz saga therefore seems far from over. The Spanish driver, first rumored to be at Sauber which will become Audi in 2026 due to the close ties between Audi and the Sainz clan (his father, a double rally champion, has been racing with the German automaker since 2022), has recently been getting closer to the Williams team. Team principal James Vowles recently explained that Carlos is an incredible driver, he is a Grand Prix race winner.

« But it is up to him to choose where he wants to go. It is clear that there are two options for him and we are one of them (the other team being Sauber/Audi). Personally, I think we are the right option, but the choice is his, of course. ». So, the Williams option seemed the most attractive for the Spanish driver from Ferrari.

A upheaval with the arrival of Flavio Briatore

However, everything is starting to change because of one element in recent days, the appointment of Flavio Briatore as a special advisor to the Alpine team. The Italian, who is returning to Enstone for the third time, has big plans for the French team.

« I guarantee it: in two seasons, we will be talking about podiums. I am here because I want to. I’m not doing this for the money, I wanted to come back to Formula 1 to help this team. In 2026, I will win races. Alpine will be on the podium. This year, there are too many handicaps, but we are reshaping the whole team ».

The new strongman of the French team intends to go all out and would therefore have set his sights on Carlos Sainz to recruit him for 2025.

« It’s incredible that such a driver is still free. We all wish to have him in the team and we will do everything in our power for this ». With the appointment of Flavio Briatore, Alpine hopes to reach the top again and join the front of the grid as quickly as possible.

Carlos Sainz’s reaction

On his side, the main interested party is seduced by the Alpine project because of the promise of a Mercedes engine by 2026 for the French manufacturer who is currently in discussions with the CEO of Mercedes, Toto Wolff, as well as the opportunity to be free in 2026 as Alpine could offer only a one-year contract to the Spanish driver.

However, he does not want to rush. He claims that « all the teams that have not signed their drivers for next year, I am on their list and they have offered me a contract and I can sign with them tomorrow. But, I will not sign tomorrow and I will take this a little calmly and decide soon ».

The Spanish pilot, although master of his own destiny, will still have to make a decision quickly before being more serene and able to prepare for the next season as best as possible.