Italian media call rumours credible: 'Albon will replace Sainz'

Charles Leclerc is Ferrari's showpiece in Formula 1. Teammate Carlos Sainz seems second-rate in Ferrari's eyes. Rumours are emerging from the Italian media that the Spaniard may be replaced. Alexander Albon is rumoured to be his successor.

Ferrari have not started 2023 very strongly. The car is very fast over a lap but is not very competitive in the race. Leclerc and Sainz burn through their tyres too quickly. Since Barcelona, the team seems to be on the rise and also seem to be doing better during races. Sainz looks fast during qualifying, but things do not always go his way during the race. His team does not always seem to be on his side, either.

In particular, it is teammate Leclerc who is favoured by the team and by team boss Frederic Vasseur. That is the observation of Spanish media, including Marca. Italy's Corriere also sees a problem emerging. Sainz's aspirations to become world champion and Ferrari's focus on Leclerc are no longer compatible. In Italy, they were already wondering if there was still room for Sainz within the Ferrari ranks.

After the first free practice sessions on Friday, the Italian newspaper wrote that the replacement process may already be under way. "Unconfirmed sources say that Vasseur has approached Alexander Albon to have him at Ferrari from 2025. He should race for points and support Charles. It is a credible rumour, given the circumstances. Sainz's contract with Ferrari and Albon's with Williams both expire at the end of 2024."