Categories: F1 News, Reports and Race ResultsToro Rosso

Sainz tempers claims that Toro Rosso quicker than Red Bull

Toro Rosso's pre-season testing form in Barcelona, where the team's new STR11 was put through its paces by Carlos Sainz and Max Verstappen, has prompted Red Bull boss Christian Horner to predict that the junior squad may well have the upper hand over its senior outfit.

But Carlos Sainz, while admitting the potential speed of his new Ferrari-powered mount looks promising, has tempered down Horner's claims.

"I cannot disagree with my boss but I can be a bit more calm and moderate than him," Sainz said.

"Red Bull last year were six-tenths in front of us, and the Ferrari engine should give us those six-tenths.

"But Red Bull in the winter should do a massive step compared to Toro Rosso due to budget so they should still be in front in my opinion.

"They have a much bigger budget and a Renault power unit which will be developed over the year. I expect them to be in front."

Nevertheless, Sainz left Barcelona feeling resolutely positive about the STR11's promising performance level and reliability.

"More than lap times and raw pace I liked the confidence the car was giving me, this is what I take to Melbourne.

"On all the days there were no mistakes, not one single lock-up, everything went really smooth and the most important thing is I have a lot of confidence which hopefully we can translate in Melbourne."

FEATURE: Race Zero - Barcelona to Melbourne via Milton Keynes

INTERVIEW: Max Verstappen: The man in demand

Keep up to date with all the F1 news via Facebook and Twitter

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.