The race in Monte Carlo was certainly not easy for Scuderia Ferrari and its two drivers. With penalties, high tire degradation, and questionable strategic choices, there was very little to salvage for the Maranello team in Monaco last weekend.
It was precisely these last factors that led to an intense team radio exchange between Carlos Sainz and his race engineer Riccardo Adami in Monaco. The Spanish driver revisited the topic during the press conference for the Spanish Grand Prix, explaining how he now, with a clear mind, can understand the team’s decision.
While racing in Monaco, Carlos Sainz was stuck behind Esteban Ocon and was unable to overtake him. The Frenchman pitted, giving Carlos Sainz a clear path to push with an open track ahead. However, Ferrari, concerned about losing position to Lewis Hamilton, called Carlos Sainz into the pits and he came out ahead of Hamilton but still behind Ocon, which infuriated him.
During Thursday’s press conference, the Ferrari driver was asked to share his thoughts that situation to understand his point of view. “I think I was clear in expressing that I wanted to go for the podium and maybe take more risks with the hard tires, but now I understand the team’s perspective,” said Carlos Sainz. “We’re fighting with Mercedes in the championship, and Lewis was behind. He was doing a great out lap on the hard tires, and we had to protect ourselves from him.”
The Spaniard then continued, “When I came out of the pits behind Esteban, I was quite frustrated. However, the team explained to me the reasons behind their decision, and now I understand them perfectly. At that moment, I had a different focus. I was hoping for rain, a safety car, or anything that could have given me a chance at the podium, but in the end, we’ll never know.” – the Spaniard pointed out.
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Carlos Sainz also spoke about Ferrari’s strategy department, which came under scrutiny again after the Monaco team radio incident. “I feel that the team is doing everything to improve. The department is continuously progressing, but there is always room for improvement, and that’s what we’re doing.” – the Spaniard concluded.
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