Six races before the end of the season, Carlos Sainz is fifth in the drivers’ standings, 32 points behind teammate Charles Leclerc. In an interview, the Ferrari driver summarized the preliminary results of his performance in 2022 and shared his thoughts on how he sees the end of the season.
Q: What do you expect from the next race in Singapore?
Carlos Sainz: From the point of view of physical activity, we are waiting for a very difficult race, but it has always been because of the high temperature and humidity. This is the toughest race of the season, so I’m flying to Singapore a week early to acclimatize and train in these conditions.
I think the track suits our car – then we have a good chance of winning. It would be great to win at the end of the season.
Q: What do you expect from the end of the season?
Carlos Sainz: I would like us to finish the season steadily, taking into account all the problems that have happened to us. I want to spend the last six races calmly, avoid problems, find a rhythm and prepare for next year.
Q: What do you expect from the 2023 Ferrari car?
Carlos Sainz: We have a good foundation from which to move forward. It is necessary to add aspects such as reliability and stability. However, we must not forget that we have fought with Red Bull this season, which is perfect. We have to study and reach their level next year.
Q: Ferrari will compete for the title in 2023?
Carlos Sainz: I think so. We would have fought for the title this year if we had acted a little better, although we have to admit that we were lucky at the start of the season. Next season there will be a new opportunity and we must try to realize it. We at Ferrari have taken a big step forward this year and now we have to set higher goals.
Q: This year you won the first race of your career. How do you rate your season?
Carlos SainzA: Honestly, not one hundred percent. There were many good races and moments that I will not forget. For example the first win, but the season itself is like a roller coaster. I couldn’t always pick up the pace, there were reliability issues. We lacked stability, which is important in the battle for the title. We have to improve and I will work on that.
Q: Do you experience anxiety when driving a Formula 1 car at high speeds?
Carlos SainzA: No, I have never felt fear. The day I get scared, I’ll end my career. This feeling is not compatible with the risk I take in qualifying on a fast lap or at the start. I’m sure fear will only get in your way.
Q: How do you deal with the criticism that invariably accompanies a Ferrari driver?
Carlos Sainz: I was warned about this in advance. I was told to be prepared for the criticism in the Italian press to be very harsh. It’s only when you’re at Ferrari that you realize how big a team’s role is and how much attention it draws.
In fact, this year too much undeserved criticism was directed at us, but this is part of the job. I’m proud to drive for Ferrari and I don’t see the problem of criticism.
Q: Did your dream come true?
Carlos Sainz: I think playing for Ferrari is every driver’s dream. Being part of this team and winning is the maximum a racer can hope for.
Q: How do you rate Fernando Alonso’s season?
Carlos Sainz: He is having a good season and next year’s project with Aston Martin is looking good. Sooner or later he will come to the fore. I see Fernando is calm and determined.
Source: F1 News
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