Carlos Sainz and the challenges of Formula 1: “In this sport, they devour you”. Carlos Sainz highlighted the necessity for drivers to be consistently strong on and off the track.

An unexpected parting
Even before the start of the 2024 Formula 1 season, Carlos Sainz unexpectedly became one of the year’s main talking points. Not due to pre-season testing incidents or mistakes, but because of the shocking announcement that Lewis Hamilton would join Ferrari in 2025, taking the Spaniard’s seat.

Mental strength to fight back
Despite the initial distress and the certainty that 2024 would be his last year with Ferrari before moving to Williams, Carlos Sainz managed to bounce back, securing 9 podiums (including 2 wins) and a pole position. His exemplary response to the demanding environment of Formula 1 was summed up by the 30-year-old in an interview with AS: “I’ve been exposed to the pressure of F1 for ten years, four of those with Ferrari, which is a whole other level,” he explained. “Here, in the end, you either adapt and become resilient, or you don’t survive. You must be mentally strong because in Formula 1, out of the twenty of us, there is no one weak—we’re all pretty tough at this level. Every year in Formula 1 is a year to step up. In this sport, they devour you, and you have to keep fighting if you want to stay alive and maintain your status and position.” – the Spanish driver pointed out.

The talent is undeniable
Carlos Sainz will now begin a new chapter with Williams, a team focused on regaining its former glory and counting on the Spaniard’s experience to continue building on recent positive strides: “Carlos has already proven himself in F1,” said Carlos Sainz’s friend Lando Norris. “He deserves to fight for championships and victories. It’s a shame when that opportunity is lost, but it’s not because he lacks talent or ability—it’s because the biggest name in Formula 1 wanted his seat.” These remarks echo those of Ferrari Brand Ambassador Marc Gene: “Working with him is a real luxury; technically, he’s very skilled. In wet track conditions or changing circumstances, he’s outstanding. He’s extremely thorough, and justice hasn’t always been done to him. He’s a great driver, potentially a world champion.” – the future Williams driver concluded.