Carlos Sainz has signed a new two-year contract extension to stay at Ferrari until end of the 2024 F1 season.
Sainz joined Ferrari from McLaren in 2021 on a two-year contract to replace Sebastian Vettel and proceeded to enjoy a strong first campaign at Maranello, where he recorded his highest championship finish of fifth place in the driver standings.
The Spaniard also picked up four podiums last season and outperformed teammate, Charles Leclerc in eight of 22 races, including a third-placed finish in Abu Dhabi which was the first of a three-race run of podium finishes after he finished second and third in Bahrain and Saudi Arabia this season..
Speaking to Ferrari.com about his “very happy” decision to stay with the Scuderia for two more seasons, Sainz said: “I have always said that there is no better Formula 1 team to race for and after over a year with them, I can confirm that putting on this race suit and representing this team is unique and incomparable.
“My first season at Maranello was solid and constructive, with the whole group progressing together. The result of all that work has been clear to see so far season.”
Sainz also felt that his early contract renewal serves as a vote of confidence in his ability as he chases his first F1 win, as he continued: “I feel strengthened by this renewed show of confidence in me and now I can’t wait to get in the car, to do my best for Ferrari and to give its fans plenty to cheer about.
“The F1-75 is proving to be a front-runner, which can allow me to chase my goals on track, starting with taking my first Formula 1 win.”
Ferrari Team Principal and Managing Director, Mattia Binotto added that the decision to renew Sainz’s deal felt “a completely natural step” following Leclerc’s decision in December 2019 to stay at Maranello until end of 2024 – which is when Sainz’s new contract will also expire.
Binotto also iterated that this announcement will provide “stability and continuity” moving forward as he proceeded to pay tribute to Sainz’s work ethic as he commented: “In his time so far with the team, he has proved to have the talent we expected from him, delivering impressive results and making the most of all opportunities.
“Outside the car, he is a hard worker with an eye for the smallest detail, which has helped the whole group to improve and progress.
“Together, we can aim for ambitious targets and I’m sure that, along with Charles, he can play a significant part in fuelling the Ferrari legend and will write new chapters in the history of our team.”
Sainz currently sits third in the driver standings as F1 now heads to Imola for the 2022 Emilia Romagna Grand Prix.