Carlos Sainz’s departure from Ferrari marked one of the most emotional exits of the 2024 Formula 1 season. After a season of ups and downs, Sainz left Maranello with dignity, leaving behind a legacy of hard-fought performances. Ferrari, in turn, ensured that the Spaniard’s send-off was nothing short of grand by gifting him a bespoke Ferrari Daytona SP3, valued at $4 million.
A Farewell Fit for a Champion
Following the post-season tests in Abu Dhabi, Ferrari arranged a special farewell at its legendary Fiorano circuit. In a symbolic gesture, both Carlos Sainz and his father, Carlos Sainz Sr., took laps around the iconic track in the F1-75—Ferrari’s 2022 challenger. The emotional day culminated in the presentation of Sainz’s personalized Ferrari Daytona SP3.
The one-of-a-kind supercar features a matte grey exterior with striking red accents, including Sainz’s race number 55 emblazoned on the side. To make it even more personal, Ferrari etched his iconic catchphrase, “Smooth Operator,” into the car’s engine intakes and center console. This exclusive model places Sainz in elite company, joining the ranks of Ferrari drivers with tailor-made cars in their collection.
Red Bull’s Regret?
Sainz’s departure from Ferrari coincided with Red Bull Racing’s internal struggles. Sergio Perez’s underwhelming performances ultimately cost the team the constructors’ title in 2024. With the seat alongside Max Verstappen being one of the most coveted in motorsport, many speculated that Red Bull might have been better off signing Sainz when he was a free agent.
When asked if Red Bull regretted passing on Sainz, Team Principal Christian Horner offered a diplomatic response:
“I think Carlos is a great driver, and we’ve seen that this year at some times. You’ve got to look at all the various criteria and dynamics. At the point that we extended Checo’s contract, you have to remember that he was second in the world championship and finishing on the podium in the first four out of five races.”
While Horner avoided outright regret, his tone hinted at the possibility that Sainz could have been a strong contender for the Red Bull seat. However, the team prioritized stability, choosing to extend Perez’s contract instead. Whether this was the right decision remains a point of debate.
A New Chapter at Williams
Despite his consistent performances, Sainz found himself without a top-tier drive for 2025. Ultimately, he signed with Williams, a team in rebuilding mode. While it may seem like a step down, Sainz’s experience and skill could prove invaluable for a team looking to climb back into competitiveness.
Legacy at Ferrari
Though his time at Ferrari did not yield a championship, Sainz leaves Maranello with his head held high. His resilience and determination resonated with fans and the team alike. The bespoke Ferrari Daytona SP3 serves not just as a gift but as a testament to the respect and admiration he earned during his tenure.
As Sainz embarks on his next chapter, the motorsport world will watch closely to see how this “Smooth Operator” navigates the twists and turns of his career.
