Ferrari seat rumours are a compliment - Sainz

Carlos Sainz regards rumours linking him with a move to Ferrari as a “compliment” to his abilities behind the wheel.

In 2019, Sainz enjoyed the best season of his career, finishing sixth in the drivers’ championship, while being one of only three drivers, alongside Pierre Gasly and Daniil Kvyat, who secured a podium spot outwith one of the top three teams.

His form has generated links with Ferrari, who have yet to determine whether Sebastian Vettel will remain with the team beyond the upcoming campaign.

"At the moment I am logically mainly concerned with McLaren. Everyone knows that I feel at home here and I am talking to them about 2021,” Sainz insisted.

“Of course, it is nice to hear that people in Italy are talking about a possible transfer from me to Ferrari, I see that as a compliment.”

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The 2021 F1 season will see the biggest overhaul in regulations in the history of the sport, with alterations including a budget cap being introduced.

Even though this has been designed to level the playing field, Sainz thinks it could take a few years for that to happen.

"When I look at 2021, I think it will be difficult for us to close the gap with the top teams,” he continued.

“Due to the drastic changes in rules, we just need more years for that. We hope to close the gap to this year and next year.

“However, we need to make three top teams smaller. It is clear that we need to improve on every level to get to Mercedes.”

Sainz did admit last week that talks had been held with McLaren about at extension to his deal, but that he was in no rush to extend before the season had even started.

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