Carlos Sainz Sr feels it “makes sense” to talk to his son Carlos Sainz Jr about a potential switch to Audi when they enter F1 in 2026.
The 61-year-old became the oldest person to ever win the Dakar Rally last week, driving an Audi. He gave the German manufacturer its first win in the gruelling event in the process.
Audi is unlikely to feature in the Dakar Rally any time soon since it is keen to focus its attention and resources on the world of F1 through its partnership with Sauber.
Sainz Jr is currently contracted at Ferrari till the end of the upcoming season, but he has been linked with a move to Audi recently and his father is keen to build the aura of the team in his eyes.
The 29-year-old has gained some rich experience in F1, but will want to ensure that Audi has a car that can be competitive against the big teams if he is to think of making the move away from the Maranello.
The fact that his father now has history with Audi will undoubtedly make it an even more interesting prospect.
“Audi is always a certainty [in terms of being successful],” said Sainz Sr.
“I also know well what the famous German mentality means in practice, both the good sides and not-so-good sides, but we just have to have a lot of respect for the Volkswagen Group with Audi as part of it.”
Sainz Sr seems to believe that Audi will make an instant impact when it enters the sport.
“We all know that Formula 1 is a special world, and I have a lot of respect for Audi,” he said.
“In my eyes, it’s just a matter of time before they succeed in F1.
“I don’t have a crystal ball, but the moment Audi decides to enter F1, they already command a lot of respect from me with that.
“Of course, it makes sense at Carlos’ house to talk about what Audi can get done, all the more so because I am a member of that Audi family.”
Sainz Jr is reportedly looking for a two-year contract extension with Ferrari, but his salary demand is a sticking point in these talks.
Apart from that, Ferrari themselves would want to keep their options open for the 2026 season when technical regulations change to ensure they have the best driver line-up possible.
His healthy relationship with teammate Charles Leclerc might see a one-year deal as the most likely outcome.