Sainz denies Verstappen rumours

Carlos Sainz Jr. denies claims that Max Verstappen had something to do with the driver not getting the Red Bull seat for 2019.

Sainz announced his decision to join McLaren last week for the start of the 2019 season.

Some of the media had reported that Verstappen, who drives for Red Bull, denied Sainz the chance of being his team-mate again (the two drove alongside each other at Toro Rosso previously).

Sainz thinks these rumours are rubbish and completely denies them.

"I don't know where that comes from, because Max is one of the drivers I have the best relationship with in the paddock," Sainz told Formule 1, a Dutch publication.

"He would never do that."

Sainz had been on loan at Renault, but next season sees a brand new opportunity for the Spaniard and he is relishing the fresh start.

"I think it's the right place for me at the right time," Sainz added. "The team is being rebuilt and everything is focused on getting back to the front.

"I have a contract for two years, but the intention is to stay longer and achieve success together.

"I can only be grateful to Red Bull for giving me the opportunity to reach Formula One and drive for different teams. The fact that I didn't end with a Red Bull seat does not mean that it will never happen."