Villeneuve: Sainz’s 'waiting game' a gamble that could backfire

Jacques Villeneuve believes Carlos Sainz would be a valuable addition to any top team on the grid, but the Canadian has expressed concern over the outgoing Ferrari driver’s strategic waiting game in the driver market.

Mid-way through Formula 1’s 2024 campaign, Sainz finds himself at a career crossroads. Despite his proven track record, the three-time Grand Prix winner has yet to secure his seat for 2025.

And with Mercedes the only front-runner seemingly interested in the Spaniard’s services, but in no rush to fill Lewis Hamilton’s upcoming vacant seat, Sainz’s choices are now limited to a trio of second tier outfits, namely Williams, Alpine and Audi-Sauber.

Villeneuve weighed in on Sainz’s plight, and while patience is a virtue, the 1997 F1 world champion highlighted the potential risks of the Ferrari charger’s waiting tactics.

“He is still probably hoping for Mercedes, that Antonelli is not good enough so the seat is available for a few years,” reckoned Villeneuve, talking to betting website OLBG.

“But playing the waiting game you could find out you are the last one standing and the last one standing is not a positive here.

“At some point, you are bound to annoy other teams who have made you amazing offers. He seemed certain to be joining Williams, and then something happened.”

• Read also: Sainz back in the mix with Mercedes for 2025

As Villeneuve mentions, a potential move to Williams was seemingly on the cards for Sainz, only for a potential deal to be put on hold when Flavio Briatore, Alpine’s new executive advisor, entered the conversation.

The controversial Italian's return to Enstone has clearly disrupted whatever plans Williams and the Sainz camp had in place.

“When you get a good offer and delay and delay at some point you will piss people off and they won’t want him,” Villeneuve added.

“You end up signing very late and you make it obvious to that team that they were only your third choice. That is not the best thing to do either.”

Despite his concerns, Villeneuve praised Sainzn for his skills and work ethic, emphasizing how the talented 29-year-old has always added value to every team he has joined in F1.

“He got to McLaren and the team started getting better. He left and it kind of plateaued and suffered when Ricciardo went there,” he explained.

“Then he got to Ferrari and they started getting better.

“He has a great work ethic and the way he works with engineers, his feedback is great and it pays off. It has a lot of value. He is quick and competitive and he seems to react well under pressure.

“When he was dropped by Ferrari he did not react badly. He reacted like a cool cat. That makes a lot of difference. Teams like that.

“He would be great for Williams who need two drivers like that. They are on their way up.”

As Sainz continues to weigh his options, the pressure mounts to make a timely and strategic choice. Will he secure a top seat at Mercedes, or will another team benefit from his expertise and experience?

The F1 community eagerly awaits the outcome, knowing that wherever Sainz lands, his presence is sure to make an impact.

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