Eddie Jordan predicts Carlos Sainz could succeed Lewis Hamilton at Ferrari in the future

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Scuderia Ferrari is poised to dominate headlines in the 2025 Formula 1 season, a role they frequently occupy as one of the sport's most iconic teams. Whether excelling on track or struggling with setbacks, the Scuderia often finds itself at the center of F1's biggest stories.

When Ferrari enjoys success, the spotlight naturally falls on their legacy as the most decorated team in F1 history. Conversely, when things go awry, criticism often lands squarely on the shoulders of their team principal—currently Frederic Vasseur. Yet, despite narrowly missing out on the 2024 Constructors' Championship, optimism is running high at Maranello.

Aside from a single misstep in development—the Spanish GP update that momentarily stalled their momentum—Ferrari has been on an upward trajectory for months. Their consistent progress, combined with a driver lineup shakeup, has fans buzzing with anticipation.

Charles Leclerc will be joined by seven-time Formula 1 world champion Lewis Hamilton next season, marking one of the most formidable pairings on the grid. While this has led to Carlos Sainz's move to Williams, the door to Ferrari might not be permanently closed for him.

As Eddie Jordan noted on the *Formula For Success* podcast, Hamilton's time at Ferrari, while exciting, won't last forever. At 40 years old, the British driver will make his Ferrari debut in 2025, but the team will inevitably need to consider a successor. Jordan speculates that Sainz, having already proven his capabilities, remains a top candidate to return to Ferrari when Hamilton eventually steps away.

Adding to this, David Coulthard highlighted Carlos Sainz's new chapter at Williams, suggesting it could be a stepping stone for the Spanish driver to remain relevant in the championship picture and perhaps one day reclaim a seat at Maranello. With so much change and high expectations, Ferrari is set to remain a focal point in the ever-dramatic world of Formula 1: "It feels like maybe a stopgap scenario for Carlos. I don't want to take anything away from Williams because I think the rebuilding and restructuring has been very impressive. But I just wonder if they will deliver him a car like the Ferrari in the time it might take for Lewis to finally hang up his boots." – the former Formula 1 driver added, as Eddie Jordan replied : "Why are you suggesting that you might find Carlos going back there?"

"I think that I could see Carlos going back to Ferrari." – the former McLaren and Red Bull driver pointed out.

Eddie Jordan admitted that “so can I. They absolutely adore him and I think he left under such great terms. And to be second on the podium and to be there, and Ferrari needed to really perform to give a fight to McLaren, up to the last lap. If anything happened to Lando, Ferrari were the champions. You know, there are certain parts that you could look back and say, Carlos was dealt a rough hand. However, we both talked about Leclerc and we know how quick he is. But for sure, in my opinion, I think Carlos had a match of them."

Carlos Sainz heads into 2025 with a point to prove at Williams after being replaced by Lewis Hamilton at Ferrari. While the Spaniard admitted he understood Ferrari's decision, it was still a bitter pill to swallow, especially as the move was confirmed before the start of the 2024 season.

Over the course of the 24-race campaign, Hamilton consistently outperformed Carlos Sainz, leaving little room for debate over Ferrari's choice. However, the departure doesn't mark the end of Carlos Sainz's ambitions; instead, it opens a new chapter where he aims to re-establish himself as one of Formula 1's elite drivers.

Eddie Jordan controversially suggested that Ferrari should consider tearing up Hamilton's contract, but such a scenario is highly unlikely given the seven-time world champion's stature and immediate success with the Scuderia.

Carlos Sainz's initial laps in the Williams FW46, during post-season testing, may not have matched the blistering pace he demonstrated in Ferrari machinery, but they hinted at his adaptability. Without pushing the car to its absolute limits, he was only marginally slower than Charles Leclerc, who completed a full day of testing in the same session.

At 30 years old, Carlos Sainz's experience and skill make him a valuable asset for Williams, where he's already built a strong rapport with the team. His pedigree ensures he remains one of the most desirable drivers should Ferrari need a replacement for Hamilton in the future.

However, the Spaniard faces potential competition from the next wave of talent, including rising stars like Ferrari junior Oliver Bearman. With several midfield drivers also eyeing a chance to don Ferrari red, the fight for a coveted seat at Maranello will be fiercely contested. For now, Carlos Sainz's focus will be on proving his worth and helping Williams climb the grid in what could be a defining phase of his career.

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