Sainz very satisfied: "Could not have wished for a better start"

27 January 2021 at 20:05

Last update 27 January 2021 at 20:09

GPblog.com

In preparation for the test days and of course the start of the new season, more and more F1 drivers are getting into their cars. So did Carlos Sainz, who took a seat in the 2018 SF71H today. He drove over 100 laps on the Fiorano test track and it was a special day for the Spaniard, as his enthusiastic reaction shows.

Unforgettable day

After his day Sainz commented on the experience via a message from Ferrari: "A day I will never forget! This morning, the alarm went off at dawn because we had some very early meetings before going out on the track. One of the most special moments for me today was when I arrived at the circuit and I saw the Ferrari with my number 55 on it!"

A special moment of course, after all, that is the moment Sainz has been living towards since he signed his contract with Ferrari. "I was eager to jump in the car and that first installation lap was exciting", the Spaniard continued. But it's not just fun, there was also work to be done and Sainz is very happy about that.

Extensive programme

"Then we got down to work and I am very pleased with how the day unfolded. We were able to get through an extensive programme and I was able to familiarise myself with the whole setup: the engineers and mechanics, the steering wheel, the procedures which are obviously a bit different to those on the car I drove last season."

He was not completely alone, outside of the Ferrari staff, as his father had also travelled with him to Italy. "It was very nice to have my father there at such an important moment in my career. And I’d like to thank Mattia, Laurent and everyone at Ferrari for such a warm welcome and such a positive first day in the 2018 car."

"I am very happy and could not have wished for a better start," said Sainz, who will race for Ferrari in 2021 alongside Charles Leclerc.