OK, so my prediction that Fernando Alonso would make a sensational switch to Red Bull for 2019 was one of the wildest predictions ever to be wrong, but we like thinking outside the box. However, McLaren didn’t wait too long to replace Fernando Alonso with compatriot Carlos Sainz, former Red Bull protege and teammate to Max Verstappen during his time at Torro Rosso.

Sainz is the son of former world rally champion Carlos Sainz Snr. however, Jr (23) has shown plenty of speed in his still relatively young F1 career. Sainz joined Torro Rosso in 2015 and has 72 Grand Prix to his name, he was part of the Red Bull driving academy and seasons spent at Torro Rosso and Renault has cemented a reputation for a future world champion in the making. However, McLaren will have to deliver, during the modern era of F1, only the best car on the grid wins championships. It may seem obvious, and in many ways its always been the case but what is most obvious is that McLaren needs to provide the best car they are capable of designing. McLaren doesn’t require any motivation nor do they require directions on what they should be doing, their history speaks louder than any uninformed or informed critic or observer. McLaren hasn’t confirmed the future of Stoffel Vandoorne who has struggled to match his teammate this season as well as generally struggling out on track. McLaren CEO, Zak Brown said on the signing of Carlos Sainz, “It’s no secret that Carlos is a huge admirer of Fernando’s, and it’s fitting that he will be stepping into his seat as a Spaniard with a legendary name in motorsport. We think he’ll be a great fit for McLaren and we’re really excited to have him join us from next season and beyond.” “Carlos brings with him the perfect blend of youth and experience. Although he’s just 23, he’ll be starting his fifth season in the sport with us and will bring with him a huge amount of racing experience, both in Formula 1 and with our partner Renault.” added Brown. He was one the greatest drivers of his generation but F1 and McLaren have already moved on from Fernando Alonso, long live Fernando Alonso.