Sainz to watch out for bad news: 'That would be foolish'

F1 News

26 May 2022 at 16:13
Last update 26 May 2022 at 17:29
  • GPblog.com

Charles Leclerc was still more than forty points ahead of Max Verstappen a few races ago, but now the Monegasque occupies the second spot in the world championship. Something therefore needs to happen quickly at the Italians, according to Jolyon Palmer at Formula1.com.

Whereas Red Bull Racing expresses a clear preference for Verstappen as its first driver, Ferrari leaves that choice in the middle for now. Team boss Mattia Binotto believes he should let Carlos Sainz and Charles Leclerc decide it together, but Palmer doesn't think that's a smart move.

"Binotto has said thus far he’d let his duo race it out, but with the way both are driving at the moment, it’s tough to see anything other than Leclerc being their championship challenger," Palmer stated in the interview. "Surely it would be foolish to let Sainz take points off him?"

Red Bull revealed choice in Barcelona

During the Spanish Grand Prix, Red Bull showed the team's preference. Indeed, when Sergio Perez drove in front of Verstappen, the Mexican was instructed to let the reigning world champion pass, giving the Dutchman a chance to attack George Russell. It ultimately ensured a win for Verstappen.