Ferrari plan Carlos Sainz contract with move for 13x F1 podium finisher in mind

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Ferrari have set their stance on a new contract for Carlos Sainz with a move to poach Lando Norris from Formula 1 rivals McLaren in mind once his deal in Woking expires.

The Scuderia are currently in negotiations with Sainz about a new deal to extend his jaunt in Maranello. Ferrari last extended his terms in April 2022 with a contract through the 2024 F1 season. But his long-term future in red is rather in doubt with Norris a free agent after 2025.

That is according to the Mirror, which reports that Ferrari only want to hand Sainz a contract through the 2025 F1 season. Maranello chiefs are keen to keep his seat free for 2026 in case they can tempt Norris to quit McLaren. Ferrari are also chasing Norris more than Mercedes.

Ferrari plan Carlos Sainz’s new contract with Lando Norris in mind

Mercedes also appreciate what Norris can add in Brackley but are yet to make any moves to replace Lewis Hamilton. The Silver Arrows extended the seven-time F1 champion’s contract until the end of 2025 in August. So, they are not yet looking firmly for his successor for 2026.

Norris would rank highly on Mercedes’ shopping list if Hamilton opts to retire after 2025. He may also have more interest from elsewhere on the grid as Red Bull team principal Christian Horner has admitted to tracking Norris, with Sergio Perez only under contract through 2024.

So, Ferrari are keen to avoid locking themselves out of the race to sign Norris by giving Sainz a long-term contract. The Mirror adds that many in the paddock consider the McLaren pilot to be among the strongest drivers on the grid after 13 podium finishes from 104 Grand Prix.

McLaren are desperate to lock Lando Norris down beyond 2025

Reports from Italy have already credited Ferrari with an interest in Norris leaving McLaren to race beside Charles Leclerc. The Scuderia are currently in discussions with the 26-year-old to seal his future at Maranello. Ferrari hope Leclerc agrees to sign a new deal through 2029.

But while Ferrari are interested, McLaren are desperate to get Norris to sign a new contract, as well. CEO Zak Brown believes his Woking squad boast the best driver line-up in Formula 1 with Norris and Oscar Piastri. They also have IndyCar star Pato O’Ward as the reserve driver.