Fred Vasseur: "Carlos Sainz's contribution was crucial for Ferrari's improvement"

Yesterday at 02:39 PM

Ferrari bid farewell to Carlos Sainz with an emotional private event in Maranello last Tuesday, marking the end of their four-year partnership. The Italian team also welcomed the press for the traditional Christmas luncheon to reflect on the past season and discuss the upcoming one, which kicks off in the factories this January, aiming for both the Constructors’ and Drivers’ Championships. Frederic Vasseur took the opportunity to highlight the Spanish driver's importance in the team’s development.

Frederic Vasseur Organized Carlos Sainz's Farewell; Charles Leclerc Attended
This year has been family-centric for Ferrari. In Abu Dhabi, Charles Leclerc shared the track with his brother Arthur during the first free practice session, with Arthur replacing Carlos Sainz. On Tuesday, Fiorano hosted a formal farewell for Sainz, with an event personally orchestrated by Team Principal Frederic Vasseur. The Frenchman arranged a special occasion where Carlos Sainz Sr and his son shared the track, driving the F1-75. For the first time in his life, Sainz Sr got behind the wheel of a Ferrari Formula 1 car, sharing a poignant final moment in red with his son.

The event was attended by team members who had worked alongside the Spaniard over the past four years, including his race engineer, Riccardo Adami. Frederic Vasseur was also present, along with Charles Leclerc, who attended voluntarily to spend time with Carlos Sainz one last time at Maranello and be part of his farewell. Sainz Sr thanked Ferrari for the four years, becoming emotional, just like his son, who bid farewell to the factory staff after taking to the track in Fiorano.

Frederic Vasseur: “Melbourne Was the Most Emotional Moment of 2024; Sainz Was Professional Until the Last Lap”
During the Christmas luncheon in Maranello, Frederic Vasseur confirmed that the Fiorano laps were Ferrari’s way of saying goodbye to Carlos Sainz, with his father also present. "I think it was the best way to thank them for everything they've done for the team, including Carlos Sainz Sr," said Fred Vasseur. The former Renault and Alfa Romeo boss expressed gratitude to Carlos Sainz for their two seasons together, noting: "We had two great seasons together, and I think he had four great seasons with Ferrari."

Reflecting on recent seasons, Frederic Vasseur highlighted key moments, including the 2023 victory. "For me, the most emotional moment of the entire season was Melbourne, where he won the race just a week after undergoing surgery for appendicitis. Last year, we had that great positive stretch after the summer break with the pole position in Monza and the win in Singapore." – the Ferrari team boss pointed out.

Discussing Carlos Sainz's broader impact, Frederic Vasseur emphasized his contributions beyond race results. "His input was very important for the team's improvement," he stated. He also praised Carlos Sainz's professionalism, even after being informed of their parting ways before the season began. "I know it wasn't an easy situation for him when I had to call him in February. But it's worth noting how he managed to maintain a very professional approach throughout the year, fully committed to fighting until the last corner of the last lap of the final race” – the French manager concluded.

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