Carlos Sainz's four-year tenure with Ferrari came to an end at the conclusion of the 2024 Formula 1 season, marking the close of a chapter filled with many enduring memories, intense challenges, and undeniable growth.
Reflecting on his time with the iconic Italian team, the Spaniard shared poignant insights into the moments that defined his journey and the emotions that will stay with him forever.
A four-time winner with the Scuderia, Sainz achieved his maiden triumph in F1 at the 2022 British Grand Prix in Silverstone, his 150th start in F1. The day obviously holds a special place in his heart.
You Never Forget Your First Win
“It's very difficult to pick one of the four wins [as the most unforgettable], because they are all relatively similar in ways that they are…” Sainz told the media last month in Abu Dhabi.
“Silverstone, because it was the first one and the first one you never forget,” he recalled.
On a weekend where he clinched pole position and showcased his grit in a dramatic race, Sainz's triumph marked the beginning of a new era in his career and solidified his place among Ferrari's storied drivers.
The 2023 Singapore Grand Prix brought another unforgettable victory for Sainz, one that underscored his strategic brilliance and composure under pressure.
“Singapore because that year was quite special to win in Singapore, the way we won it,” he reflected.
Sainz's clinical drive in the night race, fending off fierce competition while navigating the challenging Marina Bay Street Circuit, epitomized his ability to excel in high-stakes scenarios.
Overcoming Adversity in Australia
Perhaps the most emotional of his victories came in Australia in 2024, when he lined up on the grid at Albert Park just two weeks after suffering an acute case of appendicitis.
“Australia because I was coming back from the tough winter and the appendicitis and suddenly I won, and it was emotional,” Sainz admitted.
Overcoming physical and mental hurdles, his victory in Melbourne was a testament to his resilience and determination to succeed despite the odds.
Sainz's fourth and final Ferrari victory in Mexico last October carried a deeply personal significance.
“Mexico, because at the time it could be my last win and my mom was there, my whole family, my friends were there to see me win and it felt really special,” he shared.
The joy of celebrating this triumph surrounded by loved ones made it an indelible moment in his career.
An Unforgettable First Drive
Amid the victories and milestones, Sainz singled out another moment, the most unforgettable of all, that held immense personal meaning – his very first drive for Ferrari at Fiorano.
“At the same time, one moment that I will never forget was driving out of the pits in Fiorano for my first outing in a Ferrari,” he said.
“I think that's one thing that for sure will stay with me forever. And it was probably, out of the success or the great moments, that one is a pretty special one.”
The symbolic weight of donning Ferrari red for the first time and taking to the track marked the realization of a lifelong dream.
Navigating a Tough Year
While Sainz's time with Ferrari was marked by memorable successes, he also faced significant challenges, particularly during the 2024 season.
The decision on his future in Formula 1, ultimately leading him to join Williams for 2025, brought added stress.
“It's been a tough year in general with a lot going on in the background,” Sainz admitted.
Despite the adversity, he expressed pride in his resilience.
“I think I have to be quite happy, quite proud of how I handled every situation through the year and how I managed to push myself to get to the end of the year still in good shape, in good form and ready to fight for [ the constructors' championship].”
Sainz's ability to remain focused and competitive under pressure spoke volumes about his character and professionalism, traits often highlighted by Ferrari team boss Fred Vasseur.
As Sainz bid farewell to Ferrari, his reflections painted a picture of a driver who gave his all, embraced every moment, and grew both personally and professionally.
While his chapter with Ferrari has closed, Sainz's story in Formula 1 continues with Williams.
Yet, as he moves forward, the memories of his time in red – from the triumphs to the challenges – will remain an integral part of the legacy he leaves behind in Maranello.
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