Carlos Sainz Determined to Stand Toe to Toe With Charles Leclerc Amid Ferrari No. 1 Driver Debate

The hierarchy in a team, especially between the drivers, has always been one of the most controversial aspects of F1. Ferrari’s Carlos Sainz faced the repercussion of the concept that revolves around the idea of a team having a main driver and a secondary driver. Carlos admits to being frustrated regarding this entire ordeal.

The prancing horse has never been big on creating this evident difference between their drivers’ positions. They reportedly treat both their drivers alike. Seeing this, fans have put pressure on Ferrari to tell who is prioritized by the team.

However, this pressure isn’t just coming in from the fans, but also from the media. Everyone sees Leclerc at the top, considering his marvelous performance this season. This, however, impacted Sainz in the first half of the season in a negative way. The Spaniard has voiced his thoughts about his experiences.

In an interview with AS, he said, “I can understand that after the first races Charles was clearly a step forward both in qualifying than in the race – he declared – but in the middle of the season I improved a lot. I started fighting more, and in a way it was frustrating, because when I got into the fight it seemed like some didn’t want me.” [Translated using Google]

“They criticized me for not being there, and when I started being there, some wondered what I was doing in front of me. It was frustrating, especially in the media. First I was criticized and then when I started to have the pace to stay in front that wasn’t good either. You have seen that I don’t pay much attention to what is said out there.”

“I know that I have things to improve as a rider, but I also know that I am good, that I am able to do it in any race.”

Read More: Mattia Binotto Blames Arch-Rivals for Ferrari’s Substandard Performances After the Budget Cap Controversy: “Red Bull’s Ability… Penalized Us”

Aside from wanting to be more competitive against his teammate, Charles Leclerc, Sainz emphasized that their teamwork holds tremendous strength.

Carlos Sainz reveals what is currently the ‘best thing’ for the Maranello-based team

Talking about his experience with Ferrari, Carlos is confident about what he brings to the table. Having said that, he highlights that many aren’t comfortable with the idea that two equally able drivers, driving for Ferrari. People strive for the hierarchy.

Giving insights on the team, Sainz said, “Even (Mattia) Binotto and team recognize that it is a virtue – he added – which is one of our strengths, but it is clear that some of the people who follow Ferrari did not want or do not want there to be two drivers of the same level. Perhaps it is a question that concerns others, because I am convinced that the best thing for the team is that the two of us are as close to each other as possible.”

Watch This Story: Ferrari Favorite Charles Leclerc spotted with French Soccer Bombshell Paul Pogba

Amidst the No1 driver debate, as an F1 fan, what is your take on the subject?