F1: Palmer OUT, Sainz IN At Renault

Brit Calls It Quits


Article heading image for F1: Palmer OUT, Sainz IN At Renault

Faced with losing his drive at the end of the season, Jolyon Palmer has decided to walk.

The Brit was going to be replaced by Carlos Sainz, but why hang around for the inevitable?

The 26 year old has decided today's Japanese Grand Prix will be his last.

It's been a disappointing couple of seasons for Palmer, who's failed to equal the performances of his team-mate, German Nico Hulkenberg.

Renault insist his departure is by "mutual consent" with Palmer dropping the news on social media late yesterday.

"The Japanese Grand Prix will be my last race for Renault," the Briton confirmed.

"It’s been an extremely challenging season and I’ve been through a lot in the last three years, but it’s been a tremendous journey overall with the team.

"My immediate focus is now on achieving the best possible result in the Japanese GP, and then I can assess my options for the future."

It means Carlos Sainz moves over from the Toro Rosso garage for the final four races of the season starting with the United States Grand Prix.

The Spaniard was signed on a "loan" from the Red Bull sister team for 2018.

Red Bull are keen to keep tabs on Sainz.

The highly-rated 23 year old is considered by many as a future Red Bull driver if Daniel Ricciardo or Max Verstappen move on one day.

Frenchman Pierre Gasly steps up to a full-time drive for the rest of the season with Toro Rosso.

Daniil Kvyat will be brought back to drive in Texas.

Toro Rosso boss Franz Tost gave Sainz a glowing reference worthy for his resume, even though he already landed the Renault seat.

"He always did his very best, demonstrating an excellent attitude and commitment to his work, which helped him and us to get some great results during that time," said Tost.

"Therefore, on behalf of everyone at Toro Rosso, I wish him all the very best with his new team. We look forward to beating him on track!"

Sean Maynard

10 December 2018

Article by:

Sean Maynard




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