Japanese Grand Prix driver ratings

XPB_773798_Sainz

Carlos Sainz - 10th place, 1 point: 7/10

Sainz was fortunate to escape damage at the start of the race as he was squeezed at Turn 1 and nudged Sergio Perez off track at high speed, but he held position and was in the top ten from an early stage. When pitting for a second time Sainz hit the bollard at the pit entry which broke his front wing, causing a longer stop and dropping him behind Perez when he rejoined. Attacking the Force India meant Sainz damaged his tyres and faded late on.