McLaren CEO Zak Brown has revealed the team would be willing to welcome back Carlos Sainz should circumstances with its current line-up in Formula 1 change.
Sainz, who raced for McLaren during the 2019 and 2020 seasons, formed a strong partnership with Lando Norris before he decided to move on to Ferrari in 2021.
However, Sainz was made to look elsewhere as last season began amid Ferrari’s choice to sign seven-time champion Lewis Hamilton alongside Charles Leclerc.
The Spaniard opted to commit to a long-term contract with Williams, where he is aiming to help the historic British outfit rebuild into a title-contending operation.
But past performances, combined with his professionalism, have ensured that the door at a top squad remains open in case the Grove-based squad underdelivers.
Speaking to Spanish outlet Marca, Brown admitted McLaren would be open to a Sainz return in the scenario where either Norris or Oscar Piastri vacated their spot.
“If we had an open seat, of course, we would consider Carlos,” he said.
“But right now, we have Lando and Oscar under contract for several years.
“If, for some reason, the situation changes and Carlos is available… I have his phone number in my address book.”
Brown stressed that the call Ferrari had between signing Hamilton and retaining Sainz was complex, as he praised the Spaniard’s attitude during his time at McLaren.
“Carlos was amazing with us, a good friend, a great driver. Luckily, I did not find myself in the situation where I had to make that decision,” he added.
Sainz relishing Williams challenge
Sainz’s move to Williams has marked a significant shift in his career as he has arrived at a side currently in a rebuilding phase under Team Principal James Vowles.
Despite the step back from the front-running competitiveness he was accustomed to at Ferrari, Sainz came into 2025 relishing the chance to aid Williams’ recovery.
“When I was 10 years old and I started to fall in love with Formula 1, which teams you would have loved to drive for one day? Ferrari, McLaren, Williams,” he said.
“Nothing would make me prouder than getting back on the podium with Williams.”
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