Nico Rosberg Spots Red Bull Boss Christian Horner in Conversation with Carlos Sainz Snr Before Chinese Grand Prix: Exclusive Insights from Sky Sports F1

Former F1 champion Nico Rosberg has stirred up speculation in the paddock at the Chinese Grand Prix after revealing a conversation between Red Bull boss Christian Horner and Carlos Sainz Snr. Rosberg, now a commentator for Sky Sports F1, claimed that Sainz is looking to negotiate a better deal with Red Bull as he vies for a seat alongside Max Verstappen.

With Sergio Perez currently occupying the seat, Red Bull is in no rush to make a decision. However, Horner confirmed that talks have taken place with Sainz, who is set to leave Ferrari at the end of the season. Rosberg suggested that Sainz is pushing for a better offer from Red Bull, possibly to match a lucrative deal from Audi, who have been eyeing the Spanish driver.

While Perez has been performing well, Rosberg advised him to play the role of a good wingman to Verstappen if he wants to retain his seat. Horner expressed that Sainz’s preference is to join Red Bull, given the team’s winning potential. However, with Perez doing a commendable job, Red Bull has the luxury of time to consider their options.

In the Chinese Grand Prix, Verstappen dominated the race, but Perez could only manage a third-place finish as McLaren’s Lando Norris split the Red Bulls. Sainz, on the other hand, missed out on the podium for the first time this season, finishing fifth behind his Ferrari teammate Charles Leclerc.

As the F1 season unfolds, the battle for seats and negotiations behind the scenes add an extra layer of intrigue to the sport. Fans will be eagerly watching to see how the driver lineup for next season shapes up amidst the ongoing discussions and speculations in the paddock.