2021: Sainz to Ferrari, Ricciardo to McLaren
With Sebastian Vettel leaving Ferrari after this season, the question on everybody’s mind was who could joint Charles Leclerc at the Scuderia for 2021. With Martin Brundle’s prediction turning out to be correct, the answer is Carlos Sainz, Jr., who will leave McLaren for Ferrari next season. Former F1 driver and presenter legend Tiff Needell summed it up best:
So Sainz it is! Must be disappointing news for the queue of talent in their Acadamy and, with no word of Ricciardo replacements, you have to worry about the future of Renault in F1 … Ocon on the subs bench again??
— Tiff Needell 🏁 (@tiff_tv) May 14, 2020
Of course, young Lando Norris won’t be left alone at McLaren, as smiling champion Daniel Ricciardo is about to leave Renault for the Woking-based team. The Australian joined Renault over Red Bull Racing for 2019 and had this to say about his latest move:
I am so grateful for my time with @renaultf1team and the way I was accepted into the team. But we aren’t done and I can’t wait to get back on the grid this year. My next chapter isn’t here yet, so let’s finish this one strong. Merci pic.twitter.com/YFfzbwrgD7
— Daniel Ricciardo (@danielricciardo) May 14, 2020
Renault DP World F1’s Team Principal Cyril Abiteboul added the following:
“In our sport, and particularly within the current extraordinary situation, reciprocated confidence, unity, and commitment are, more than ever, critical values for a works team. I am confident that the 2020 season will allow us to accomplish even more together. Our ambitions and the strategy of Renault DP World F1 Team remain unchanged.”
Heading to the so-far stronger team, the younger Carlos Sainz decided to share his go-kart with the internet:
I’m very happy that I will be driving for Scuderia Ferrari in 2021 and I'm excited for my future with the team.
I still have an important year ahead with McLaren Racing and I really look forward to go back racing with them this season. pic.twitter.com/UXkTzFzUgV
— Carlos Sainz (@Carlossainz55) May 14, 2020
Ferrari’s 2021 car is promised to be just as red—but to produce more downforce.
