Contract talks between Ferrari and Carlos Sainz have reportedly come to a standstill according to rumors in Italy.
The Scuderia announced this week a multi-year extension of its partnership with Charles Leclerc, a deal that should see the Monegasque carry the Italian outfit’s colors until at least the end of 2027.
However, on the other side of the Ferrari garage, talks appear to be going less smoothly with Sainz, leaving the latter in an uncertain position.
Ferrari's decision to announce Leclerc's extension while Sainz's contract remains unsigned suggests that there are still unresolved issues between the team and the Spanish driver.
According to Italian media outlet Formu1a.uno, "neither party is making progress in negotiations" and talks have slowed down significantly.
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Sainz has frequently expressed his desire to remain at Ferrari, stating that it is his "number one choice."
However, he has also expressed his wish to sign a multi-year contract ahead of the start of the 2024, and this seems to be the sticking point in the negotiations.
Ferrari, on the other hand, appears to be more open to a shorter-term arrangement in a bit to keep their options open for the future.
Despite the impasse, Formu1a.uno maintains that Sainz is still "the most likely scenario" to remain at Ferrari in the coming months.
However, the longer the contract negotiations drag on, the more speculation will arise, particularly if Sainz's personal deadline for reaching an agreement is not met.
There have also been persistent rumors that Audi is actively courting Sainz, perhaps with the support of the Spaniard’s father, Carlos Sainz Sr, who recently offered the German manufacturer its first win in the Dakar rally raid.
But if common sense prevails, Ferrari and Sainz will reach an agreement sooner rather than later, as stability is an important aspect to consider for the Scuderia.
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