Horner “couldn’t rule out” Sainz Red Bull F1 move

When pressed by Motorsport.com regarding whether Horner would consider taking Sainz back, he replied: “Look, based on a performance like that you couldn’t rule any possibility out, so I think you just want to take the time [to decide].

“Obviously, Checo was compromised today. He’s had a great start to the season too, so we’re not in any desperate rush.

“Carlos is the only driver that’s beaten Red Bull in the last [year], so he appears to be our nemesis.”

When asked if a performance like Melbourne’s, coming just two weeks after undergoing surgery for appendicitis, had raised his value, Sainz replied: “I don’t know. For sure, it does no harm. That is 100%. I’m still without a job for next year, so I guess this is going to help it.

“I think everyone knows more or less what I’m capable of doing.

“I don’t race to prove my value to team principals or to people. I race to prove to myself that if I’m given a car, I can get it done and I can be up there. And that’s the mentality and the approach that I have and I will keep having the rest of the year.”