Nico Rosberg calls Christian Horner 'stingy'
Nico Rosberg claims Carlos Sainz is pushing for a higher payday from Red Bull amidst contract talks, as the Ferrari driver's future hangs in the balance for 2025.
With Carlos Sainz's Ferrari contract expiring at the end of 2024, the Spaniard needs to find a new team for 2025.
As speculation swirls around his potential move to Red Bull, 2016 F1 World Champion Nico Rosberg has weighed in, suggesting that Sainz is angling for a more lucrative financial offer from the Milton Keynes-based team.
Rosberg's insight
According to Rosberg, who was speaking during Sky F1's coverage of the Chinese Grand Prix, he witnessed a conversation between Red Bull team principal Christian Horner and Sainz's father, Carlos Sainz Sr., in the paddock.
Rosberg's assessment? Horner's initial offer to Sainz was "stingy," prompting the driver's camp to negotiate for "a couple more million."
Sainz's value
Red Bull's keen interest in Sainz is understandable, given the Spaniard's impressive form and his status as the team's "nemesis," as described by Horner himself following Sainz's victory in Australia.
While the favorite to partner Max Verstappen in 2024 remains the incumbent Sergio Perez, Red Bull would be remiss not to evaluate all options, including the highly sought-after Sainz.
Rival interest
Complicating matters further is the reported "very lucrative offer" from Audi, as claimed by Red Bull advisor Helmut Marko.
With Audi set to rebrand and take over Sauber in 2026, Sainz's availability on the driver market has piqued the interest of multiple teams, putting him in a strong negotiating position.
Horner's stance
Horner, however, has downplayed knowledge of any offers made by Audi to Sainz, stating that Red Bull is "not aware of any offer".
He emphasized the confidentiality expected in such negotiations, asserting that "it would be inappropriate to comment" on any potential offers from rival teams.
Sainz's perspective
Amidst the uncertainty surrounding his future, Sainz has acknowledged the frustration and discomfort of not having his plans secured.
However, he remains focused on performing well on track, leaving the contract negotiations to his management team.
The Spaniard recognizes the unique challenges and dynamics of the Formula 1 driver market, describing it as "political" and "particular".
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