Sainz not expecting to replace F1 rival Palmer for Malaysian GP

Sainz will join Renault next season on loan, after the Spaniard was released by Red Bull as part of a complex deal that involved Toro Rosso switching from Renault to Honda power.

Renault is keen to get Sainz in the car as soon as possible and potentially from as early as the upcoming Malaysian Grand Prix, but Palmer wants to see out the remainder of the season and is standing firm on the contract that is in place.

When asked if he was sure he would be driving for Toro Rosso in Malaysia, Sainz said: "For the moment I'm 100% sure because that's what I heard.

"All the rest is a bit of speculation at the moment and it's something that I'll probably be the last to know.

"All the decisions are taken by Red Bull and Renault. It's something that if it happens it's a negotiation between Renault and Red Bull and nothing to do with me."

When asked about the possible scenario, Renault managing director Cyril Abiteboul said Palmer has a contract in place until the end of the season.

"The reality is that Carlos will be in the car in Melbourne in 2018," he said.

"Obviously your question makes reference to the situation of Jolyon Palmer.

"It's a speculation that we - him and the team - have had to live with for... I don't know how many races, and frankly it's really difficult on Jo and a bit unfair on Jo and the team, and to a certain degree it maybe has had a negative impact on his ongoing performance.

"Right now, what I see is that we have a car that is capable of scoring points in Singapore. That's the focus and we have an ongoing contract with Jo until the end of the season."