Carlos Sainz has described Ferrari’s recent surge in form as “bittersweet” as he counts down the final five races of his tenure with the team, poised to be replaced by Lewis Hamilton next season. Fresh off securing pole position at the Mexico City Grand Prix, Sainz reflected on Ferrari’s improved pace, which has reignited hopes in the Constructors’ Championship race, trailing McLaren by just 48 points with five events remaining.
Sainz’s impressive Q3 lap left him over two-tenths clear of Max Verstappen’s Red Bull and added to Ferrari’s recent momentum, building on their one-two finish in Austin. Despite the success, Sainz admitted that it’s bittersweet, given his exit is just around the corner. “Given how good the car is, how well I’m driving recently, it’s obviously optimistic going into the last five races,” Sainz shared, “At the same time, bittersweet because it gives me a feeling Ferrari might be in the fight for the World Championship next year, and I will not be there to use it.”
For Sainz, who joined Ferrari in 2021, leaving feels particularly tough after his contributions to the team’s rebuilding efforts. “I feel like I’ve been quite a big part of this team during the last four years, trying to prepare the team to fight for that championship next year,” he explained. With Hamilton stepping in, Sainz is determined to make the most of his final outings, targeting more wins and podiums before he departs for Williams next season.
Looking ahead to the race, Sainz is focused on making the most of his front-row start at the Autódromo Hermanos Rodríguez. Though he’ll face pressure from title contenders Verstappen and Lando Norris close behind, Sainz intends to prioritize holding P1 off the line, crucial for managing tire temperatures and cooling in Mexico’s challenging conditions. “Honestly, the start I will just do everything I can to stay in P1 because also around Mexico that’s really important for the cooling of the car, for the tires, and everything,” he noted.
As he prepares for his final Ferrari races, Sainz remains hopeful, eager to end his chapter with the Prancing Horse on a high. “I’ll trust my instincts,” he said, with a smile, “with the intention of getting out of that corner P1, for sure.”
