EXCLUSIVE: Carlos Sainz ‘Embarrassed’ by Red Bull Decision Following Ferrari Exit.
Damon Hill has praised Carlos Sainz as a “thoroughly brilliant racing driver” and sees it as a “compliment” that Sainz wasn’t picked by Red Bull. Sainz, who will join Williams for the 2025 F1 season, initially felt disappointed about missing out on a top-tier seat but has since come to terms with it.
Hill commented that Sainz would benefit any team, adding that it’s positive Sainz didn’t sign with Red Bull, where Max Verstappen is firmly established as their lead driver. Sainz admitted he was hurt by the decision, saying it was hard to understand but has now set his sights on new challenges with Williams.
After Sainz learned he would be replaced at Ferrari, Hill acknowledged that he likely felt undervalued, but noted that the driver taking his place, Lewis Hamilton, is one of F1’s greatest, making the situation more understandable. Hill explained that it’s easier for Sainz to accept the change, knowing it’s Hamilton—a seven-time World Champion—who will step into his shoes at Ferrari, rather than a less accomplished driver.