Carlos Sainz Should Prepare for ‘Tremendous Pressure’ at Ferrari, Warns Former Ferrari F1 Test Driver

Spain is really excited to have Carlos Sainz driver for Ferrari this coming season. On January 27, 2021, the Madrid driver made his debut for Ferrari, testing the 2018 SF71H at Fiorano. Meanwhile, a former Ferrari test driver recalled his experience and warned Sainz about the extreme pressure.

Pedro De la Rosa was the Maranello outfit’s test driver from between 2013 and 2014. He stated Sainz should be proud of his partnership with the Prancing Horse. “Ferrari is more than an F1 team. It goes further.”

“I only stayed there for two years as a test driver, but for me it was a unique experience. All drivers dream of being able to drive a Ferrari sooner or later. It marks you forever. Carlos must be proud of it,” said De la Rosa.

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De la Rosa warns Carlos Sainz of the Ferrari pressure

With thousands of drivers fighting for just twenty seats, F1 is really competitive. Ferrari has been one of the most successful teams in the sport. Thus, the pressure on the Ferrari driver is much more intense.

“The pressure in Maranello is tremendous.”

However, De la Rosa knows Sainz is an experienced driver and can handle whatever’s thrown at him.

“But he has five seasons of Formula 1 experience and his last at McLaren was spectacular. He does not have to think about the world context or the recent past of the Scuderia, but only about driving. Going to Ferrari is a unique opportunity and he is ready,” said De la Rosa.

Sainz performed really well at McLaren and helped the Woking-based team to their best result since 2012. He scored  105 points and finished the season in the P6 position. Meanwhile, Ferrari had their worst season in the last 40 years.

Sainz is aware that his beginning with Ferrari could be a little difficult and it’ll take some time to understand the car. He hopes to replicate the McLaren work environment and relationships in Ferrari.

Ferrari might well be the key to Sainz’s success, but do you believe Sainz is the answer to the team’s woes?