Toro Rosso set to retain Verstappen and Sainz for 2016
Red Bull’s junior Formula One team is poised to keep both Max Verstappen and Carlos Sainz for a second season after a strong rookie year from the pair.
Toro Rosso is expected to field an unchanged driver line-up for the 2016 Formula One season, with both Max Verstappen and Carlos Sainz set to stay on after an impressive rookie campaign. The Red Bull-owned squad has signalled its satisfaction with the progress of its two young drivers, who have drawn attention across the paddock with their performances in the 2015 championship.
Verstappen, at just 17 years old, has already emerged as one of the most talked-about talents on the grid, with sources in the paddock suggesting Ferrari has shown interest in signing him for the future. Red Bull’s driver development chief, Helmut Marko, has publicly praised Verstappen’s ability, noting that other top teams have taken notice of his rapid adaptation to Formula One.
Sainz, 20, has also made a strong impression in his debut season. While he has yet to sign a contract extension, Sainz has indicated he expects to remain with Toro Rosso in 2016, pointing to the team’s stability and the absence of other names linked to his seat as encouraging signs. He has said that the continuity would benefit both his own development and the team’s performance.
Red Bull’s approach to young talent
Contract status and future prospects
While Sainz has not yet signed for 2016, he has expressed confidence in his position. Verstappen’s contract situation is less clear, but indications are that Red Bull intends to retain both drivers for at least another year. The stability could help Toro Rosso build on its current momentum as the team continues to develop its chassis and awaits clarity on its future engine supply.
