Carlos Sainz is bracing for a qualifying challenge as Ferrari heads to the Mexico City Grand Prix, hoping to build on its recent success in Austin but wary of a familiar “Achilles’ heel” — the one-lap pace. While the Scuderia has recently dazzled with strong race performances, qualifying remains Ferrari’s weak spot, and this weekend’s shorter DRS zone at the Autódromo Hermanos Rodríguez may add pressure to secure a prime starting position.
At the U.S. Grand Prix, Ferrari showed the world its mettle, with Charles Leclerc and Sainz securing a 1-2 finish. Yet, Sainz worries that Mexico’s layout could limit their overtaking chances, especially without a top-two grid position. “Qualifying P3 or P4 in Mexico means you might have a shot at Turn 1,” Sainz explained. “But at many tracks, that wouldn’t allow the same kind of race we had in Austin.” Despite this, he remains optimistic: “If we can be in the mix, our race pace could give us a real chance.”
The U.S. GP at the Circuit of the Americas was a significant moment for Ferrari, where the team’s SF24 shone. However, Sainz acknowledges Ferrari’s persistent issue in high-speed corners, a factor that forced them to claw back time in low-speed sections to hold their edge against rivals like Red Bull and McLaren. “Surviving that first sector in Austin was key,” Sainz remarked, adding that Ferrari’s strong performance there “gives me hope.”
Looking ahead, Sainz expressed particular concern for Qatar, citing Ferrari’s vulnerability in high-speed turns. “I think Qatar is going to be a tough race for us,” he admitted. “But at other tracks, we should be able to stay in the mix.” Ferrari’s game plan is clear: minimize the high-speed cornering losses and maximize their low-speed strengths to keep competing at the top.
As the F1 season nears its climax, Ferrari’s resurgence has injected fresh competition into the grid. This weekend, the question remains whether they can master qualifying and keep their momentum alive in Mexico — or if they’ll need another dose of strategic magic to overcome their grid placement and secure a win.
