Breaking: Carlos Sainz and his father RETURNS to Ferrari as Ham..

Carlos Sainz Bids Ferrari Farewell in Special Test Run Before Joining Williams

Carlos Sainz and his father, rally legend Carlos Sainz Sr., took part in an emotional farewell at Ferrari’s Fiorano test track, marking the end of the Spaniard’s time with the Scuderia ahead of his switch to Williams for the 2025 Formula 1 season. Ferrari granted Sainz this special send-off in recognition of his contributions to the team, as the driver prepares for a fresh start with Williams next year.

Sainz was notified last winter that his contract with Ferrari would not be renewed beyond the 2024 season, following the high-profile signing of Lewis Hamilton from Mercedes. Hamilton’s arrival at Ferrari on a multi-year deal made Sainz the odd man out, despite a strong showing throughout the season. Sainz responded to the news by delivering one of the best campaigns of his career, achieving victories in both the Australian and Mexican Grands Prix, which solidified his reputation as one of F1’s top drivers.

In July 2024, Sainz announced that he would be joining Williams on a multi-year contract, a move that raised some eyebrows but promised an exciting new chapter for both driver and team. Ferrari, respecting his future plans, granted Sainz an early release to participate in Williams’ post-season test in Abu Dhabi. During the test, Sainz impressed immediately, completing 146 laps and posting the second-fastest time of the day, trailing only his former teammate, Charles Leclerc.

Sainz’s move to Williams coincides with a major sponsorship deal for the team, as Spanish bank Santander announced a new partnership with Williams, shifting its backing from Ferrari after three successful seasons together. This collaboration brings financial strength to Williams and highlights the importance of Sainz’s signing for the team as they look to rise in the competitive ranks of Formula 1.

Before fully transitioning to his new team, Sainz returned to Ferrari’s Fiorano track with his father for a heartfelt farewell test. Both Sainz Jr. and Sr. had the opportunity to drive the Ferrari F1-75, the car that Carlos Sainz Jr. drove to victory at the 2022 British Grand Prix, his first-ever F1 win. Social media was filled with touching clips of the father and son duo driving together, showcasing the bond between them and celebrating Sainz’s time with Ferrari.

At the conclusion of the test, both Sainz Sr. and Jr. addressed Ferrari staff who had gathered to witness the moment. Carlos Sainz Sr., who had just secured victory in the Dakar Rally earlier in the year, expressed his deep appreciation to the Ferrari team, stating, “You cannot imagine. You have made a grandfather a very happy man today.” His gratitude reflected the special opportunity for father and son to share such a significant moment together at the iconic Italian track.

Carlos Sainz Jr. then took the microphone, speaking in Italian and reflecting on his father’s achievements and their bond through motorsport. He praised his father’s determination and success, saying, “This year, a 62-year-old grandfather tries a Ferrari and wins the Dakar. Thanks to you all and see you next year on track!” His words echoed the respect and affection he holds for both his father and the Ferrari team, despite the emotional nature of his departure.

This farewell came shortly after Sainz’s final race for Ferrari at the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, where emotions ran high for both him and his family. Former F1 team owner Eddie Jordan revealed that both father and son were brought to tears following the race, with Sainz Jr. still coming to terms with Ferrari’s decision to replace him. Jordan criticized Ferrari chairman John Elkann for the decision, suggesting that Elkann “must have rocks in his head” to let Sainz go, especially after such a strong season.

Despite the end of Sainz’s tenure at Ferrari, team principal Fred Vasseur hinted that the door remains open for a future reunion. Vasseur acknowledged that conversations had already taken place between both sides regarding a potential return in the future. However, for now, Sainz and Ferrari are focused on their respective projects, with both parties uncertain about what the future holds.

“We don’t know what will happen in 2027, 2028, or 2029,” Vasseur said, referring to the unpredictability of the driver market. “This is a very small world. There are only 10 teams and only six or seven top drivers. You never know what’s going to happen.”

As for Ferrari’s immediate plans, Hamilton’s multi-year deal is expected to last through the 2025 and 2026 seasons, while Leclerc also extended his contract earlier in 2024, though the exact terms have not been disclosed. Nevertheless, Ferrari has left the door open for Sainz to return, should circumstances align in the future.

For now, Carlos Sainz embarks on a new chapter with Williams, leaving behind fond memories and a deep bond with Ferrari. His farewell test at Fiorano was a fitting tribute to his time with the team, underscoring his achievements and the respect he garnered during his stay.