'First talks held between Sainz and Mercedes'

With Lewis Hamilton leaving for Ferrari in 2025 and Charles Leclerc having already extended his contract at the Italian Scuderia, Carlos Sainz has to look for a new employer. Since the news came out that Hamilton will go to Ferrari, Sainz has been linked with a move to Mercedes. There is even said to have already been a meeting between Sainz's team and Mercedes.

Last weekend, Sainz was absent during the third free practice, qualifying for the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix, and the race itself due to appendicitis. Nevertheless, Corriere dello Sport reported that before the race, delegates from the Spanish driver's team and Toto Wolff's team met.

George Russell will drive for Mercedes next year, but there is still a spot next to him available. Speculation is currently circulating about a possible move for Max Verstappen. The situation inside Red Bull Racing is ongoing, so the possibility of Verstappen driving for Mercedes suddenly seems plausible.

Sainz is also regularly linked with a move to Audi, but they will not race in F1 until 2026. Whether the meeting could indicate contract negotiations or other consultations is not yet clear, but that will be continued...