Sainz to Replace Palmer for Rest of Season

By Adam Tate, Associate Editor

Renault and Toro Rosso have agreed that Carlos Sainz Jr. will move to the French team after the Japanese Grand Prix this weekend.

This had been the original aim of the deal between Red Bull and Renault when it was agreed that Toro Rosso would loan Sainz to the French outfit. However, negotiations between Renault and Jolyon Palmer broke down and the British driver remained alongside Nico Hukenberg. The negotiations later resumed and Palmer has announced that tomorrow will be his last race with the team, and potentially his last race in Formula One.

The move not only bolsters Renault’s hopes of points for the remainder of the season, but it allows the return of Daniil Kvyat to Toro Rosso and cements Pierre Gasly’s place in the team as well.

Gasly is set to continue Toro Rosso, and now will miss the Super Formula season finale which collides with the United States Grand Prix. He is currently second in the championship, but has declared is openness to miss out on the title if it allowed a continued run in Formula One.

Sainz who will make his 56th start for Toro Rosso tomorrow, only two less than the 158 by Jean-Eric Vergne, is thrilled to finally get the career jump he has long pushed for.

“I would like to thank Toro Rosso and Red Bull for allowing me the possibility of finishing this season with Renault Sport Racing,” said Sainz.

“More specifically, I really want to thank all my engineers and mechanics for their support and tremendous work throughout these years. Toro Rosso is made up of a fantastic group of people and I wish them only the best for the future. On my side, I will definitely do my very best in tomorrow’s race, this would be the best possible send off.”

“Additionally, competing in these last four races with Renault gives me a good opportunity to get to know the team and the car earlier than expected. I am looking forward to start working with them.”