Ferrari has already signed a long-term contract with Charles Leclerc, who finished ahead in the last drivers’ championship. Sebastian Vettel, whose contract expires at the end of 2020, has not confirmed yet that he will continue his relationships with Ferrari.

Mattia Binotto has often claimed that Vettel is the first option. Nevertheless, Ferrari is considering alternatives in case the German driver leaves. Daniel Ricciardo, Carlos Sainz, and Antonio Giovinazzi are the main candidates to replace the four-times Formula 1 World Champion.

In particular, rumours about Sainz moving to Ferrari have spread significantly over this week. Indeed, there are different advantages that Ferrari would get from picking Carlos Sainz. While many would choose Ricciardo because he is a race winner and has experience of driving with a top team, the Australian driver is unlikely to play second fiddle and give way to Leclerc. Sainz, instead, is a smart driver who can play a waiting game before challenging Leclerc.

Besides, Ferrari could choose Sainz for economic reasons. Ricciardo is one of the most paid Formula 1 drivers, whereas Sainz earns half as much as the Australian. In the lights of the Corona crisis and the need to cut costs down, Ferrari might opt for the Spaniard.

Antonio Giovinazzi has also been touted as a replacement for Vettel. Nevertheless, the young Italian driver has not already demonstrated the capacity to run for a top team since he is in his second year as a full-time racer. Undoubtedly, the 2020 season was a great opportunity to show his talent, but the current stop has been detrimental to his ambitions.

On the other hand, Sainz displayed an excellent performance in 2019. The Spanish driver obtained his first podium in Brazil, and ended up the season with 96 points, while his teammate, Lando Norris, finished with 46.