Carlos Sainz, the charismatic Spanish Formula 1 driver known for his prowess on the track and his "Smooth Operator" moniker, has largely kept his personal life, particularly his romantic relationships, out of the intense glare of the public eye. Unlike many high-profile athletes who frequently share details of their love lives, Sainz has maintained a remarkable level of privacy, preferring to let his racing do the talking. Despite his efforts to keep relationships under wraps, public interest and media scrutiny have occasionally brought aspects of his romantic history to light, revealing a pattern of long-term, stable partnerships.
For several years, Carlos Sainz was widely reported to be in a long-term relationship with Isabel Hernaez. Their romance reportedly began around 2017, and Hernaez, a journalist and public relations professional, was often seen discreetly supporting Sainz at various F1 races. Their relationship was characterized by its low-key nature, with neither Sainz nor Hernaez frequently posting about each other on social media or making public declarations.
While they never officially confirmed their relationship status or shared many details, Hernaez's presence at races and subtle social media interactions were often interpreted by fans and media as confirmation of their enduring partnership. The couple reportedly shared a private life away from the F1 paddock, focusing on their respective careers and personal growth. This long-standing relationship was a significant, albeit private, part of Sainz's life during his rise through the ranks of Formula 1, from Renault to McLaren and eventually to Ferrari.
Reports of their separation began to surface in early 2023, with fans noticing a lack of interaction and Hernaez's absence from recent races. Neither Sainz nor Hernaez publicly addressed the breakup, maintaining their characteristic privacy. The end of their long-term relationship marked a significant shift in Sainz's personal life, leading to increased speculation about his romantic future.
Following the reports of his split from Isabel Hernaez, Carlos Sainz was linked to Scottish model Rebecca Donaldson. Speculation about their relationship began in the summer of 2023, when they were photographed together on multiple occasions. These sightings, including a notable appearance in Sardinia, quickly fueled rumors of a new romance for the Ferrari driver.
Donaldson, who has a background in fashion and has been associated with other high-profile individuals, appeared to be a new chapter in Sainz's romantic life. While neither party has explicitly confirmed their relationship, their public appearances together have been widely reported by entertainment and sports news outlets. The nature of this relationship, much like his previous one, seems to lean towards a more private approach, despite the public interest surrounding an F1 star's personal life.
As of late 2023 and into 2024, Carlos Sainz and Rebecca Donaldson have continued to be seen together, suggesting their relationship is ongoing. Despite the paparazzi photos and media attention, Sainz has continued to prioritize his privacy, rarely commenting on his personal affairs during interviews or public engagements. This consistent approach underscores his desire to keep his focus primarily on his demanding career in Formula 1.
Carlos Sainz's romantic history, though not extensively publicized, reveals a preference for stable, long-term relationships maintained with a high degree of privacy. From his years with Isabel Hernaez to his more recent connection with Rebecca Donaldson, Sainz has consistently navigated his personal life away from the spotlight, allowing his on-track performances to define his public persona. His approach to relationships reflects a mature and grounded personality, preferring discretion over public display in his private world.