Carlos Sainz's departure from Ferrari is tinged with bittersweet emotions, but the Scuderia ensured the Spaniard's exit is marked by memories as iconic as his time with the team.
To honor his remarkable four-year tenure, Ferrari gifted Sainz one of the most meaningful tokens of appreciation a Formula 1 driver could receive: his race-winning SF-75 from the 2022 British Grand Prix, the car that carried him to his first career victory in Formula 1.
The handover took place last week at Ferrari's private Fiorano test track, where Sainz had the chance to relive his triumphant moment behind the wheel of the SF-75.
Adding to the excitement of the day, Carlos Sainz Sr., the two-time World Rally Champion and Carlos Jr.'s father, also joined the celebrations, taking the wheel of a second SF-75 for some memorable family saying.
At the end of the session, Ferrari revealed the surprise that left Sainz Jr. speechless: the very car that delivered his first win was now his to keep.
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The move comes as Sainz steps aside for seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton, who joins Ferrari in 2025.
While the transition has been a sensitive topic, Ferrari's gesture reflects the respect and admiration Sainz earned within the team.
His professionalism in what was an emotionally challenging 2024 season was particularly commendable, as Scuderia team principal Fred Vasseur acknowledged.
“For me, the most emotional moments with Carlos will always be this year's victory in Australia, coming back after his appendicitis surgery,” Vasseur commented. “And last year when he achieved pole position at Monza and won in Singapore.”
“I've had two great seasons with Carlos, and I thank him.”
As if receiving a Formula 1 car wasn't enough, Sainz's car collection recently grew even more exclusive with the arrival of his custom Ferrari Daytona SP3.
Delivered to him in Monaco, the bespoke supercar features a matte gray exterior accented by red pinstripes and the #55 proudly displayed on the side skirts.
Inside, the car reflects Sainz's personality, with the “Smooth Operator” moniker etched onto the intakes and center console – a playful nod to the Spaniard's nickname.
By gifting him both the SF-75 and crafting a customized Daytona SP3, Ferrari has ensured Carlos Sainz's contributions to the Scuderia will be celebrated long after he's donned another team's colors.
Whether it's the memories of his debut win at Silverstone or the roar of his supercar on the streets of Monte-Carlo, the “Smooth Operator” leaves behind a legacy that resonates with class, grit, and undeniable talent.
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