Carlos Sainz optimistic about expectations for Baku: "A good opportunity to do well"

09/12/2024 10:18 AM

Scuderia Ferrari Spanish driver Carlos Sainz shared his hopes for the Azerbaijan weekend, stating that the circuit could favor the Maranello team thanks to the characteristics of the SF-24 and the turns that suit the car well. The expectations of Carlos Sainz and Ferrari are clear for the Baku Grand Prix, where they aim to replicate the Monza weekend.

Speaking at the media session held inside the Ferrari Motorhome, Carlos Sainz talked about his feelings ahead of the GP on the Azerbaijani track. “Baku could be an opportunity to win or get on the podium,” said the Spaniard. Ferrari has always performed well in Baku but has never managed to achieve success.

Track characteristics that should match well with those of the SF-24 were also confirmed by Carlos Sainz. “It's a track that could be suitable for our car. We have been strong here in the past; we have four pole positions for Charles here. It's a combination of Charles being an expert on this circuit and the car adapting well to these 90-degree turns that are usually suited to our car, like in Singapore last year. It could be an opportunity to win another race or get on the podium.” – the Spanish driver pointed out in Thursday’s press conference.

After setting expectations for the Azerbaijan weekend, Carlos Sainz shared some thoughts on the Italian weekend, where he finished fourth. “The post-race analysis showed that I lost a lot of time by extending the first stint on the mediums to try to make only one stop, while he was probably making two stops, pushed more, and cleaned the graining before me. I also had some damage due to contact with Lewis at the start, which caused me to lose aerodynamic balance and a bit of pace during the race.” – he explained.

“The important thing is that we won the race in Italy with Charles and that I did my part in holding off the McLarens. It gives us the opportunity to close the gap in the Constructors’ Championship, and we don't know how this package will perform on regular tracks. But at least in Monza, Baku, Singapore, Las Vegas, and maybe Mexico, it can be a strong car.” – Carlos Sainz concluded.

Source: f1ingenerale

The post Carlos Sainz optimistic about expectations for Baku: “A good opportunity to do well” appeared first on Scuderia Fans.