Sainz happy with 'plan B' option in McLaren

Carlos Sainz says there are no ill feelings towards Renault or Daniel Ricciardo over his move away from the team. Sainz will be replaced at the team by Ricciardo in 2019 with the Spaniard off to McLaren alongside Lando Norris in a completely changed line-up.

Sainz maintains that there are no issues between himself and the team despite the perception that he was pushed out of the team, saying that he is looking forward to his new challenge with McLaren next season.

“You've never heard anything bad from me towards Renault or the Ricciardo signing. For me with Renault, the only regret I have is not having a bit more time with them to get together some better results, you know," Sainz told Motorsport.com.

“But the situation, life was taking us to this point. I think they are still happy that I am going to McLaren with Renault power. And I am sure we're going to have a successful time.

“But it was just the situation, the way it evolved, that I was probably a bit forced out of there, and I had to get a plan B and that plan B was McLaren.

"As soon as I got the opportunity I had to sort out my plan B and McLaren was a great option for me.”