Carlos Sainz rejects Renault seat 'trade' rumours

Carlos Sainz of Toro Rosso during previews to the Formula One Grand Prix of China at Shanghai International Circuit on April 14, 2016
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Carlos Sainz and Toro Rosso reject the latest speculation about the Spaniard's future in Formula 1.

Carlos Sainz and Toro Rosso have rejected the latest speculation about the Spaniard's future in Formula 1.

Although the energy drink company recently took up the 2017 option on Sainz's contract, many suggested that it occurred suspiciously early in the season.

It triggered rumours in the Spanish press that Red Bull might in fact not keep the 21-year-old at Toro Rosso next year, but instead trade him with the Renault works team in exchange for cheaper engines.

"Am I a currency now?" Sainz was quoted as saying by Speed Week when asked about the rumours at Silverstone, adding that such a deal would be "strange".

Toro Rosso team boss Franz Tost agreed, declaring: "This is a completely groundless rumour which I can summarise in two words - utter nonsense."

Sainz placed eighth at Sunday's British Grand Prix.

Kevin Magnussen of Renault in the paddock during previews ahead of the Formula One Grand Prix of Russia at Sochi Autodrom on April 28, 2016
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