Is Carlos Sainz the Most Underrated Driver on the Grid?
Carlos Sainz is back in the spotlight after a triumphant return to the podium at the Azerbaijan Grand Prix, marking a significant turnaround from a torturous six-month streak of misfortune and underwhelming performances. This Spanish driver, once overshadowed and underestimated, has finally secured his first podium with Williams—a deserved accolade that ignites hope for the entire team and its supporters.
James Vowles, the head of Williams, took a bold gamble on Sainz early on when he was still donning Ferrari’s red. The relationship seemed complex, but it blossomed into a solid partnership. Vowles’ unwavering faith in Sainz is a testament to the #55 driver’s undeniable talent, especially after Ferrari opted to focus on Lewis Hamilton instead of retaining Sainz’s services.
The Underdog: Sainz’s Silent Rise
Carlos Sainz has never quite exuded the aura of an F1 superstar. He entered the sport alongside Max Verstappen, who quickly became the darling of the racing world, leaving Sainz trailing in his wake. After a tumultuous period at Renault, Sainz found his footing with McLaren, transforming into the mature, intelligent driver we see today—one who fosters excellent relationships and exhibits an unparalleled work ethic.
To truly gauge a driver’s performance, one must look at their teammate, and Sainz’s journey reveals a mixed bag of results. Initially, he faced off against Verstappen, who dominated their time at Toro Rosso with 62 points to Sainz’s 22. However, when he moved to face Daniil Kvyat, Sainz showcased his prowess, amassing 90 points compared to Kvyat’s meager 8.
At Renault, the competition was fierce against Nico Hülkenberg, but Sainz held his own with 78 points against Hülkenberg’s 59. With Lando Norris at McLaren, Sainz’s consistency shone through with 201 points against Norris’s 146, despite Norris clinching two podiums to Sainz’s one. His time at Ferrari also saw him competing against Charles Leclerc, who bested him in wins and points, but Sainz consistently proved he could gather points and stay competitive.
A Catalyst for Improvement
One undeniable trend has emerged: Sainz has a knack for elevating the teams he joins. Across five teams, he has consistently left them in a better state than he found them. At Toro Rosso, he helped the team secure seventh place, and during his tenure at Renault, he guided them from ninth to fourth. With McLaren, he propelled them from sixth to third, and even at Ferrari, he improved their standing from sixth to second.
This trend begs the question—how does Carlos Sainz manage to uplift teams? His impressive work ethic, sharp strategic thinking, and ability to foster strong relationships are critical components. Teams in distress or those looking to build a solid foundation recognize that Sainz is a valuable asset, and it’s no accident that they seek him out.
The Perfect Driver for Team Success
While Sainz may not have the raw speed of other notable drivers like Verstappen, Leclerc, or Norris, he compensates with his commendable off-track demeanor and astute approach to racing. He is growing increasingly aware of his strengths and weaknesses, steadily improving his results. Though his pure speed may not match the elite, his other qualities are invaluable for teams aiming for long-term success. Vowles’ decision to sign him was not a mere coincidence; it was a strategic choice that underscores Sainz’s worth.
Title Contender? Perhaps Not Yet.
The question of whether Sainz can contend for a championship is a complex one. Judging by his time at Ferrari, he lacks the sheer speed to rival Verstappen or even Leclerc in a straight fight. For Sainz to emerge as a serious title contender, he would need the right environment and circumstances—something that seems challenging given the current competitive landscape.
Does this reality undervalue him? Absolutely not! Sainz is a driver to watch, a potential target for teams seeking a reliable and skilled performer. His journey through F1 is characterized by hard work, integrity, and an impeccable attitude—qualities that make him a coveted team member. Is he the most underrated driver on the grid? Perhaps! But as his reputation grows, he is swiftly becoming a crucial asset for any team fortunate enough to secure him.