Carlos Sainz wished to replicate Charles Leclerc’s triumph in his own race.
The Spanish Grand Prix is the home territory of several drivers on the track. Sainz was expected to be among the top contenders, as he demonstrated impressive performances during the free practice sessions. However, his luck changed during qualifying, where he could only secure the sixth position. Despite this setback, Sainz remained optimistic about his race strategy. However, he expressed his frustration over the radio when he was forced off the track by another driver, who had been cut off by Sainz earlier in the race.
Controversy surrounded Carlos Sainz at the start of the Spanish Grand Prix, as he faced accusations of overtaking his teammate off the track. Although the incident went unnoticed by the stewards, karma struck the Spaniard on lap 19, when Lewis Hamilton overtook him, thus denying Sainz a place on the podium.
The 29-year-old driver believed Hamilton’s maneuver was illegal.
Incredible move by Hamilton on Sainz, great master, they even made contact with the Ferrari, but he was clearly faster. #SpanishGP pic.twitter.com/3JaPFAc5zv
Sainz was seen defending the middle of the track, but this created an opportunity for the 39-year-old Hamilton, who took advantage and pushed Sainz off the track. This incident provoked an angry response from Sainz over the radio, demanding that the seven-time world champion give up the position, as it was an illegal maneuver.
Sainz’s comments led Ferrari to report the incident to the stewards. However, the stewards only took note of the incident and ultimately absolved the Mercedes driver of any wrongdoing. This decision enraged the Spanish driver, who criticized the lack of accountability from the FIA.
The 29-year-old pilot argued that it didn’t make sense to have a rule book if the stewards weren’t going to apply it fairly.
Although Sainz was understandably frustrated with the stewards’ decision, other commentators agreed that the incident was a result of a fierce race and should be considered a racing incident in the overall context.
Currently, Sainz is in sixth place and seems far from reaching the podium in his home race. Therefore, Sainz would need a miracle and a half to have any chance of reaching the top positions.
