Two more pieces of the 2017 jigsaw fell into place today when Toro Rosso revealed that it is to retain its current line-up.

While Renault had been keen to secure the service of Sainz, there has been widespread speculation as to whether Kvyat's time with the Italian team was up, though in recent days he has been linked with a move to force India to fill the seat vacated by Nico Hulkenberg.

"It makes a change to announce our driver line-up relatively early," said Franz Tost. "There are so many new elements coming to Formula 1 in general and to our team specifically, in terms of the change of power unit supplier, that having the same two drivers gives us stability and a benchmark to work from.

"For Carlos, it will be his third year with us, which speaks volumes when it comes to how highly we rate him. In recent races, it has been clear that Daniil is back on top form. I always told him that his future with us was in his hands and he has stepped up to the mark and delivered the sort of performances that have ensured his 2017 seat in the STR 12.

"We now have a very talented and strong driver pairing to tackle a season in which we expect to be very competitive."

"Great news!" said Kvyat. "I'd like to thank Red Bull, Dr. Marko and all the team for their support and the faith they have shown in me since I returned to the team earlier this year. I'm very happy to stay with a team that feels like home to me. I'm really looking forward to continuing the hard work together in 2017 and I'm really aiming high. I will always be fully dedicated, giving my ‘200%', and I will be pushing as hard as I usually do, that's for sure. I'm delighted!"

"Considering how many changes there are in the Formula 1 pipeline for 2017, it's good to know that Daniil and I will continue to be teammates here at Toro Rosso next year," added Sainz. "We know each other very well, as we've been racing together since 2010, and we work well together. I know that this season isn't over yet, but I'm already looking forward to next year!"

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