Carlos Sainz Allegedly Returning to Ferrari After Charles Leclerc Shakeup

There are once again rumors in the Formula 1 paddock about whether Carlos Sainz can have a sensational comeback to Ferrari. Most recently, it was speculated that there could be tension between Charles Leclerc and the Scuderia, which led to speculation that Sainz could return to Red Bull earlier than anticipated. But is this comeback realistic, and what would it need to occur?

What’s the Backstory?

At the end of the 2024 season, Sainz left Ferrari. The team made a surprising choice by signing seven-time champion Lewis Hamilton. This move ended a three-year partnership between Sainz and Leclerc. Their time together brought stability, podiums, and a few race wins.

Sainz, at the time, said he was hurt and surprised by the decision, insisting he had been nearly sure that he was going to stay. Although he is joining Williams in 2025, the Spaniard has insisted that there is nothing he should be angry about and that Ferrari will always have the door open to him.

Sainz has demonstrated excellent leadership at Williams since his move and has assisted the team in regaining its competitiveness and focus. However, his comments concerning Ferrari have had fans and the media buzzing that there was a possible reunion.

What Are the Rumors Saying?

Recent updates from sites like RacingNews365 and Sportskeeda show rising tension between Leclerc and Ferrari management. Their relationship is strained due to disputes over team strategy, car development, and race decisions.

Other insiders say Ferrari might be considering backup plans. They mention reuniting with a driver like Sainz. He knows the company culture and delivers when needed. One publication even suggested Sainz could step in if Leclerc’s role changes soon.

It is worth mentioning,  though, that these assertions are conjectural. Ferrari or Sainz has not made any official comments regarding any potential or discussions of a return.

What Supports a Possible Return?

Sainz also has a good relationship with the Ferrari staff. Some people still inside Maranello, it is said, still venerate him after his departure. His professionalism, feedback, and technical input were very much appreciated – something that any team would miss. Also, the performances of Sainz in Williams have preserved his reputation, and Ferrari is aware of what he can offer to the table: reliability, teamwork, and racecraft.

What Are the Obstacles?

Although the idea of a comeback is emotionally compelling, there are still a number of significant obstacles. Sainz has signed a multi-year deal with Williams that is bound to see the team climb out of the middle. Ferrari, in its turn, boasts a complete line of drivers – both Leclerc and Hamilton will be in contracts at least as far as one can predict.

A recovery would have to be really dramatic: either a driver would have to leave, or there would be a performance problem or a loophole in the contract. Timing would be of the essence even at the time, since F1 driver markets are volatile and long-term transactions are hard to undo.

What Would Have To Happen To Reunite?

To have a reunion, several conditions would have to fall into place:

• An exchange of drivers at Ferrari: Hamilton is not performing well, or Leclerc.
• Flexibility of contract: Sainz and Williams would need to enter into a concurrence over exit or transition.
• Timing: Ferrari would require a driver who would harmonize with team behavior and long-term objectives.

Final Word

Although the concept of Sainz coming back to Ferrari following a shakeup of Leclerc is interesting, this is only a speculative notion at present. There is an open-door policy at Sainz, though logistically and contractually, this is not likely to happen in the near future.