21/04/2022
NEWS STORY
Carlos Sainz has agreed a new deal with Ferrari which will keep him at Maranello until the end of 2024.
In his debut season with the Italian team, Sainz gave teammate Charles Leclerc a run for his money, and though out-qualified 13-9, finished fifth in the overall standings with 164.5 points, while the Monegasque was seventh (159).
This season however, Leclerc has two wins to his name and heads into the fourth round of the season as favourite for the title, what with the F1-75 proving to have the pace and reliability to see off Red Bull and Mercedes.
Sainz, on the other hand, has had a patchy season, never more so than in Australia when he spun off on the second lap after qualifying ninth.
"I am very happy to have renewed my contract with Scuderia Ferrari," said the Spaniard who is in his second season with the team. "I have always said that there is no better Formula 1 team to race for and after over a year with them, I can confirm that putting on this race suit and representing this team is unique and incomparable.
"My first season at Maranello was solid and constructive, with the whole group progressing together," he continued. "The result of all that work has been clear to see so far season.
I feel strengthened by this renewed show of confidence in me and now I can't wait to get in the car, to do my best for Ferrari and to give its fans plenty to cheer about. The F1-75 is proving to be a front-runner, which can allow me to chase my goals on track, starting with taking my first Formula 1 win."
"I have said several times that I believe we have the best driver pairing in Formula 1," added Mattia Binotto, "and so, with every passing race, it seemed a completely natural step to extend Carlos' contract, thus ensuring stability and continuity. In his time so far with the team, he has proved to have the talent we expected from him, delivering impressive results and making the most of all opportunities.
"Outside the car, he is a hard worker with an eye for the smallest detail," he added, "which has helped the whole group to improve and progress. Together, we can aim for ambitious targets and I'm sure that, along with Charles, he can play a significant part in fuelling the Ferrari legend and will write new chapters in the history of our team."
Check out our Thursday gallery from Imola, here.