Jun.3 (GMM) Carlos Sainz says he wants to continue racing until at least the age of 40, as fresh speculation swirls about his long-term Formula 1 future.
The 31-year-old Spaniard is out of contract at Williams at the end of the season. Team boss James Vowles has made clear he wants both Sainz and Alex Albon to stay, but Audi remains a name to watch after unsuccessfully trying to lure him before the 2025 campaign.
Audi chief Mattia Binotto admitted only days ago that discussions took place.
“Obviously, we had a good relationship in Ferrari,” Binotto said. “I employed him in Ferrari, so he knew that I trusted him as much as I trust him today.
“He evaluated, but honestly, I think he made his own choice and that was important. I would even say that he made his own choice, and not his dad’s choice, which is great for him.”
Speaking to Spanish-language Vanity Fair, Sainz suggested retirement is still a long way off.
“I envision a long career,” he said. “I’d like to keep racing from at least 31 to 40 years old for sure, whether it’s Formula 1 or any other discipline.
“And from there, I’ll look at my personal and family situation and decide if I want to continue racing or if I want to dedicate myself to another role within the sport.”
The Spaniard, now one of the most experienced drivers on the grid after 12 seasons in Formula 1, admitted the lifestyle leaves little free time away from racing.
“Maybe the time I have to do what I want is about 20 or 30 days a year,” Sainz said.
“In the end, sport is part of my life, and practically all the time I’m not racing I spend doing sport.”
Sainz also revealed that becoming an uncle has altered his outlook on life and made him think differently about the future.
“Two years ago, before my nephews, I wouldn’t have even considered being a father,” he said.
“But now it’s true that it seems closer. I see fatherhood in a better light, with more enthusiasm.”
Despite increasing global fame driven by Formula 1’s boom and Netflix’s influence, Sainz insists his focus remains unchanged.
“Professionally, I can say with 100 percent certainty that I haven’t stopped striving to improve for a single moment in these 11 years, in every aspect,” he said.
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