Sainz: 'Top teams are in a different category'

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Carlos Sainz laments Formula 1's two-tier system which has put the sport's front runners 'in a different category', out of reach from the mid-field teams.

Sainz has finished seven times in the top ten this season with Toro Rosso currently standing sixth in the Constructors' championship, just two points behind Williams.

The Spaniard feels however that mid-field teams are in a different category all together compared with Mercedes, Ferrari and Red Bull, with no chance to challenge for wins at the pinnacle of motor sport.

"I want to think the gap will be closed a bit, and I do think it's a massive difference, a difference that's way too big," says Sainz.

"On the other hand the gap has just increased this year, throughout the year Mercedes and Ferrari have run away because they have more resources, more money to develop."

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The introduction of hybrid technology in F1 in 2014 undoubtedly favoured the richer manufacturer teams such as Mercedes and Ferrari, and has led to the sport's two-tier running order.

"In my opinion at the moment we have two different categories in Formula 1 and it's not what Formula 1 should be about, you know, so hopefully it's something that will not happen next year.

"For us, as a midfield team, we don't even look at what Mercedes is doing, as it's just a different category at the moment."

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Phillip van Osten

Motor racing was a backdrop from the outset in Phillip van Osten's life. Born in Southern California, Phillip grew up with the sights and sounds of fast cars thanks to his father, Dick van Osten, an editor and writer for Auto Speed and Sport and Motor Trend. Phillip's passion for racing grew even more when his family moved to Europe and he became acquainted with the extraordinary world of Grand Prix racing. He was an early contributor to the monthly French F1i Magazine, often providing a historic or business perspective on Formula 1's affairs. In 2012, he co-authored along with fellow journalist Pierre Van Vliet the English-language adaptation of a limited edition book devoted to the great Belgian driver Jacky Ickx. He also authored "The American Legacy in Formula 1", a book which recounts the trials and tribulations of American drivers in Grand Prix racing. Phillip is also a commentator for Belgian broadcaster Be.TV for the US Indycar series.