Ferrari driver Carlos Sainz explains struggles to pass Pierre Gasly in Lusail
12/03/2024 03:45 AM
Looking back on the chaotic Qatar Grand Prix, Carlos Sainz opened up about the challenges that prevented him from overtaking Pierre Gasly’s Alpine in the final laps of the 57-lap race which was held at the 5.419-kilometre Lusail International Circuit last Sunday.
Ferrari had approached the event at the Lusail International Circuit with tempered expectations, aware that the track’s characteristics would likely highlight the limitations of their SF24. While the team stumbled in the sprint race, Charles Leclerc salvaged crucial points in the main event by securing second place, aided by a late ten-second stop-and-go penalty for Lando Norris.
Carlos Sainz initially stayed close to his teammate but began to lose ground once Leclerc ramped up his pace. The Spaniard’s race was further compromised when Valtteri Bottas struck a rear-view mirror on the main straight, causing debris that punctured Carlos Sainz’s tire. This incident forced him into a slow crawl back to the pits, costing him valuable time.
Although a second safety car period allowed Carlos Sainz to close the gap to the frontrunners, he ultimately finished in sixth place, unable to find a way past Pierre Gasly. After the race, Carlos Sainz admitted to feeling disappointed with the outcome, believing that Ferrari had the potential for a stronger result despite the SF-24 car’s known weaknesses at the circuit.
“I'm obviously not happy with the outcome of today's race. We were in a strong position but unfortunately, I got a puncture and had to complete an entire lap with a flat tyre.” – the Spanish driver explained – “After the pit stop, the Safety Car came out so the whole situation cost us even more time and ultimately some crucial positions. Dragging the car for an entire lap led to some damage and the car felt a bit off, making things difficult for the last stint.”
“That said, I'm pleased I managed to bring the car home and together with Charles' podium we managed to score important points. We will fight until the last lap of the Abu Dhabi race for the championship, and hopefully finish the season in the best way possible,” the future Williams driver pointed out at the end of the Qatar Grand Prix.
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