Sainz: Max would never do that

Before Pierre Gasly was confirmed as Verstappen's teammate for next year, Sainz was a candidate for the seat with rumours emerging that the young Dutchman vetoed the idea of teaming up with his former Toro Rosso teammate.

Since then Sainz has been signed by McLaren to replace departing Fernando Alonso.

When quizzed by reporters about the 'Verstappen's veto' chitchat, Sainz insisted, "Max would never do that. I do not know where this rumour comes from. Max is one of those people in the paddock that I understand best."

Red Bull have made their choices for the future and clearly, Sainz was not required by the team that groomed from his junior days. In retrospect, the writing was on the wall when his bosses agreed to loan him out to Renault.

"I can only thank Red Bull for the chance to race for different teams in Formula One. And not going to Red Bull Racing does not mean I'll never do that," added Sainz keeping a door open for a return to the Bulls while harbouring no grudge.

As for his immediate future with McLaren, the 23-year-old said, "I think it is the right place for me at this time. The team is being rebuilt and everything is focused on getting back to the front. My contract runs for two years, but my intention is to stay longer and celebrate success with them."