Carlos Sainz at Ferrari (2021–2024)

Carlos Sainz's four seasons with Scuderia Ferrari, from 2021 to 2024, unfolded as a period of remarkable consistency and strategic acumen, solidifying his reputation as a top-tier Formula 1 driver capable of delivering under pressure.

How it began

Sainz joined Ferrari in 2021, stepping into the seat vacated by four-time World Champion Sebastian Vettel. His arrival alongside the highly-touted Charles Leclerc was met with anticipation, as the team aimed to rebuild its competitive edge. From his very first race for the Scuderia at the 2021 Bahrain Grand Prix, Sainz demonstrated his ability to quickly adapt, securing a respectable P8 finish. His debut season saw him consistently extract performance from the SF21, culminating in four podium finishes and a fifth-place standing in the Drivers' Championship with 163.5 points, notably outscoring his teammate.

The partnership's character

Throughout his time at Maranello, Sainz cultivated a reputation for his methodical approach and strategic intelligence, earning him the moniker "Smooth Operator." His partnership with Leclerc was often closer than many pundits initially predicted. While Leclerc frequently displayed flashes of raw speed, particularly in qualifying, Sainz's race craft and consistency often brought him into contention. This dynamic was particularly evident in the 2023 season, where Sainz, despite finishing seventh in the championship, notably outscored Leclerc. He proved adept at managing tire degradation and executing nuanced race strategies, often maximizing points even when the Ferrari car, such as the SF-23, presented significant challenges. His ability to perform under pressure was a hallmark of his Ferrari stint, providing invaluable data and feedback to the engineers, as detailed by the Formula 1 — official site.

Key chapter in the seasons

Sainz's Ferrari career was punctuated by significant milestones. His maiden Formula 1 victory came at the 2022 British Grand Prix, a memorable win demonstrating his composure and strategic thinking. That year, he accumulated 228 points and nine podiums, finishing fifth in the standings. The 2023 season brought another standout performance at the Singapore Grand Prix, where he delivered a masterclass in controlled racing, securing Ferrari's sole victory of the year. His final season in 2024 further underscored his capabilities, adding two more victories and nine podiums, accumulating 262 points and once again finishing fifth in the championship standings. Over his 89 races with Ferrari, Sainz achieved a total of 4 wins and 25 podiums, accumulating 831.5 points. This consistent performance, even amidst the team's fluctuating fortunes, showcased his resilience and skill. For drivers like , this experience will be vital for his next chapter, much like how has become a team leader.