Carlos Sainz Sr Breaks Silence on Son’s Ferrari Exit Amid Lewis Hamilton’s Arrival

  Carlos Sainz Sr breaks silence after Lewis Hamilton’s Ferrari debut

Carlos Sainz Sr, a rallying legend and father of former Ferrari driver Carlos Sainz Jr, has spoken out following his son’s departure from the Scuderia after four years. This development comes as Ferrari welcomed seven-time World Champion Lewis Hamilton to Maranello for the 2025 Formula 1 season.

Ferrari’s decision to sign Hamilton, one of the sport’s most marketable and successful drivers, created a “perfect storm,” according to Sainz Sr. In January 2024, the team finalized Hamilton’s contract after the Brit made himself available with a short-term Mercedes extension. With Charles Leclerc already locked in, Ferrari had no choice but to part ways with Sainz Jr, despite his stellar form and a strong 2024 season where he became the only non-Red Bull race winner.

While the decision could have bred resentment, Sainz Jr maintained professionalism and understood Ferrari’s reasoning. “Carlos was happy at Ferrari, and they were happy with him, but the chance to sign Hamilton was extraordinary,” Sainz Sr shared on *El Cafelito*.

Ferrari ensured the departure was amicable, allowing Sainz Jr to participate in the post-season Abu Dhabi test with his new team, Williams, and offering a heartfelt farewell. The Scuderia gave him the car he drove to his maiden victory at the 2022 British Grand Prix and invited the Sainz family to Fiorano for a private test session.

Recalling the day, Sainz Sr said, “Driving a modern Formula 1 car with my son was an unforgettable experience. Ferrari’s gesture was exceptional—something they’ve rarely done for drivers in their history.”

The 62-year-old, who also had a chance to take the wheel of an F1 car, described the experience as exhilarating. “The power, handling, and braking were incredible. It was a day I’ll cherish forever,” he told *The Sun*.

Meanwhile, Ferrari team principal Fred Vasseur left the door open for a potential reunion with Sainz Jr in the future. With Hamilton entering the latter stages of his career, a return to Maranello could be on the cards.

“This is a small world,” Vasseur told Spain’s *DAZN*. “There are only a handful of top drivers, and you never know what will happen. Carlos has a bright future, and who knows what opportunities might arise in 2027, 2028, or 2029.”

For now, Sainz Jr embarks on a new chapter with Williams, leaving behind a positive legacy at Ferrari and maintaining strong ties with the team that played a significant role in his career.