Carlos Sainz Jr thinks Toro Rosso's F1 future now looks more secure

With Red Bull ending its teams' engine supply agreement with Renault at the end of this season, a year ahead of schedule, both Toro Rosso and Red Bull Racing's prospects are uncertain.

But while the the situation looks bleak for Red Bull as Mercedes has said it will not provide a power unit and Ferrari is also understood to have declined, Toro Rosso is believed to be close to reverting to Ferrari power.

Asked by Autosport about the team's future, Sainz said: "It looks a bit better, like everything is falling into place, finally, especially for Toro Rosso.

"I'm positive. The situation looks to be improving.

"I really hope they come to an agreement soon and we can start preparing the car for next year.

"If the car is just an evolution of this year with a bit more power then I think we can have a very strong year with a very strong package.

"I'm a very positive guy. I want to think that next year we will have a competitive package and we will be a bit more up in the races, and that it can be a really good year.

"If we assess all the problems, and I learn a lot from this year, then next year can be a really good year."

Toro Roso was previously powered by Ferrari from 2007-13. Its 2016 deal is likely to involve this year's engines.

Asked for his view on that prospect, Sainz replied: "I still think it's not so bad if it's '15 spec, we will see."