“I’m doing well, I’m composed, we’re working towards the future, but most importantly, we’re focused on what lies ahead,” Sainz shared with Sky Sports. “This year holds great significance, as it is my final year with the team, and I aim to give my absolute best. I am training rigorously to ensure I am fully prepared to give my all.”
Ferrari has officially announced that Hamilton will be joining the team on a multi-year contract, commencing in 2025. Hamilton, who currently holds the record for the most wins in F1 history with 103 victories, has been a part of Mercedes since his departure from McLaren in 2013.
Following Charles Leclerc’s contract extension with Ferrari in January, Sainz found himself in an unexpected situation.
Sainz, a 29-year-old Spanish driver, has achieved two wins throughout his career and has stood on the podium in 18 races. He has participated in 185 F1 races and secured a seventh-place finish in the 2023 driver standings.
The news of Hamilton’s addition to the Ferrari team did not come as a surprise to Sainz, who stated, “No, I wasn’t disappointed. Having experienced Ferrari from within, I was already aware of certain factors and had prepared myself in anticipation of future changes. However, my sole focus right now is to give my absolute best for Ferrari this season.”
“Beginning a new season knowing it will be my last with a team is not the most conventional situation, but once I put on my helmet in Bahrain and hit the track, you can be certain that my only goal will be to go as fast as possible,” Sainz affirmed. “And if the opportunity arises to become the World Champion, I will strive to seize it,” concluded the determined Spaniard.
The Bahrain Grand Prix, which marks the start of the season, is set to take place on March 1. (Reuters)