Carlos Sainz is adamant he is “not even thinking about 2019” and a possible Red Bull seat as his focus is firmly on Renault.

Loaned out to Renault late last season, Sainz remains a Red Bull driver and the most likely candidate to replace Daniel Ricciardo should he leave at the end of 2018.

But while it would be a step forward for the 23-year-old, he insists right now his full focus is on Renault alone.

“I think there are no more secrets in my contract situation at the moment,” Sainz told Sky Sports.

“On a personal feeling, it would be very stupid to think about 2019, especially when 2018 [season] hasn’t even started.