Sainz completes Toro Rosso driver line-up

Toro Rosso

The 20-year-old Spaniard joins Max Verstappen, who is 17, for the Italian constructor as they put together a totally new team for next year.

Originally Kvyat was going to partner Verstappen for Red Bull's junior team but, having impressed this year, the Russian was promoted to be Daniel Ricciardo's team-mate in place of the departing Sebastian Vettel.

Sainz has made his way through the junior levels of motorsport and became the youngest ever winner of the World Series by Renault 3.5 Championship this year.

After catching the eye while testing for Red Bull in Abu Dhabi last week he has been handed a chance in F1, following the likes of Ricciardo and Kvyat in starting their careers with Toro Rosso.

"I am really happy to have landed the drive with Scuderia Toro Rosso," he said. "Ever since I have been part of Red Bull's Young Driver Programme, this has been my aim and I want to thank Red Bull for putting their faith in me. 

"I have had a very successful season in World Series by Renault this year and now I am looking forward to taking the step up to Formula One. 

"I tested for a day with Toro Rosso last year and I liked the atmosphere in the team. 

"In the next few months I will be working hard on my preparation, ready to get in the cockpit in Jerez for the first test of next year."

Sainz's arrival in the team means Toro Rosso have two young drivers with fathers who have histories in motorsport.

His father, also Carlos, is a former WRC champion and Verstappen's dad, Jos, raced in F1 from 1994 to 2003.

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