"If one has to replace me, let it be Lewis Hamilton": Carlos Sainz on Ferrari's decision to change driver lineup

Carlos Sainz shared his thoughts on Ferrari's decision to replace him with Lewis Hamilton next season. The Spanish driver understands what it means for the Prancing Horse to have a driver of Hamilton's stature, and he is happy to be replaced by the seven-time champion.

Earlier in February, Ferrari decided to bring in Hamilton and replace Carlos Sainz for 2025 and beyond. The Italian team reportedly agreed on a multi-year deal worth $446 million to put him alongside Charles Leclerc.

Now, roughly half a year later, Sainz told GQ Spain that he felt less heartbroken because he was being replaced by a driver with seven F1 world titles, 104 race victories, 104 pole positions and 200 podium finishes.

“I obviously understand Ferrari’s decision, the opportunity to sign a seven-time world champion, and what it can entail and attract to a team,” the Spaniard said.

“That's why, when I reflected on it, it didn’t hurt me that much. Because in the end, it’s not any other driver replacing you, but the best driver in history. And in the end, if one has to replace me, let it be [Lewis].”

Carlos Sainz arrived at Ferrari from McLaren in 2021 and has performed equally alongside Leclerc. The Madrid-born driver was the only non-Red Bull driver to pick up a win last season with his 2023 Singapore GP victory. Sainz's next destination is still unknown.

On the other hand, Hamilton is set to depart from Mercedes after 12 long years with them. The British driver arrived at Mercedes back in 2013 and claimed six Driver's Championships and helped them clinch eight Constructors' Titles.

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Carlos Sainz had no hard feelings for Lewis Hamilton and Ferrari

Carlos Sainz of Spain driving the Ferrari SF-23 and Lewis Hamilton of Great Britain driving the Mercedes AMG Petronas F1 Team W14 battle for track position during the F1 Grand Prix of Saudi Arabia at Jeddah Corniche Circuit on March 19, 2023, in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. (Photo by Lars Baron/Getty Images)

Days after the official announcement of Lewis Hamilton moving to Ferrari, Carlos Sainz said that he had no hard feelings for the team and the incoming driver.

"From my side obviously no hard feelings, with anyone," Sainz said ahead of the 2024 Bahrain GP. "I think this is how the sport works. Obviously I have a lot of respect for Lewis, the success he’s had and obviously the choice to join Ferrari. I would have done the same in his position."

The Spanish driver is currently rumored to join multiple teams, including Alpine, Mercedes and Red Bull. However, he has yet to decide on his future.