Carlos Sainz has insisted his focus remains on maximising performance at this weekend’s Singapore Grand Prix, despite a swathe of announcements which could include his expected move to Renault for 2018.
The Spaniard became a cog in the wheel of the McLaren, Honda, Toro Rosso, Renault story last weekend after it emerged he has agreed to join the French manufacturer, potentially from the Malaysian Grand Prix, as compensation from Red Bull to Renault for ending their engine supply deal early with the junior team.
On Thursday, the deals between the various parties which have already been revealed are expected to be announced as the F1 community gathers at Marina Bay, however, Sainz continues to stay quiet on his part.
“Obviously there is a lot going on in the media,” Sainz told Autosport on Wednesday. “[But] I come here as a motivated Toro Rosso driver to score as many points as possible.
“I know there are a lot of rumours going on and a lot of things being said, but from my side, I prefer to stick to my standard. That is to focus on my weekend – and not comment too much about the future: first of all, because I’m not allowed and secondly because I think it’s the best way to approach the weekend.”
One unexpected beneficiary from the situation is Daniil Kvyat, as the Russian looks set to remain with Toro Rosso for another year as the man many tipped to replace, Pierre Gasly, could well end up joining him.
“Whatever is going to happen, it’s going to be good for the team,” he commented. “I think there are only good things ahead for this team.”
“The future needs to be sorted out because that is a big topic to get sorted,” he added. “Then I think as soon as that is sorted, I will have news. The sooner the better, but I cannot pressure the team at these difficult times.”
