Sainz signs new Ferrari contract | 'Best driver pairing in F1'

Carlos Sainz has signed a new contract with Ferrari, keeping him with the Italian team until the end of the 2024 F1 season.

The Spanish driver, who joined as Sebastian Vettel's replacement in 2021, has formed a highly-rated partnership with Charles Leclerc since his arrival and his previous deal was set to expire this year.

His renewal was confirmed ahead of Ferrari's home Emilia Romagna GP, with Sainz tied down for another two years.

"I have said several times that I believe we have the best driver pairing in Formula 1 and so, with every passing race, it seemed a completely natural step to extend Carlos' contract," said team boss Mattia Binotto.

"I have always said that there is no better Formula 1 team to race for," added Sainz, 27. "And after over a year with them, I can confirm that putting on this race suit and representing this team is unique and incomparable.

"I feel strengthened by this renewed show of confidence in me and now I can't wait to get in the car, to do my best for Ferrari and to give its fans plenty to cheer about.

"The F1-75 is proving to be a front-runner, which can allow me to chase my goals on track, starting with taking my first Formula 1 win."

Sainz is currently third in the championship after Ferrari's stunning start to the season, 38 points behind leader Leclerc.

Sainz impressively beat his Monegasque team-mate in his rookie year in red but has had a difficult start to the year in comparison despite Ferrari's newly-competitive car, and spun out of the Australian GP.

Gallery: Koenigsegg Gemera On Track (motor1.com)

But his contract extension was always going to be a formality given his form on the track and his partnership with Leclerc and the team off it.

"Together, we can aim for ambitious