Carlos Sainz raises Ferrari expectations for Mexico: “We want to be front-runners”. Carlos Sainz is feeling confident ahead of the Mexico City Grand Prix.

Scuderia Ferrari arrives at the 4.304-kilometre Autodromo Hermanos Rodriguez in Mexico City riding high from a double podium in the United States Grand Prix at the Austin circuit and is now looking to replicate that result. In Central America, teams will face new challenges, particularly the altitude, which puts engines and power unit cooling systems to the test. Despite these challenges, Carlos Sainz is optimistic for Mexico and has high hopes for Ferrari.

“We said that the Circuit of the Americas would be the benchmark to understand how good the development work on the SF-24 was. I’d say the test was passed,” said Carlos Sainz during the official press conference in Mexico City. “As we saw in qualifying, we’re still not the strongest in long, high-speed corners. However, there has been a clear improvement, especially since in race configuration, we were the fastest overall, even in the first sector.” – he added.

Carlos Sainz’s words reflect what was seen in telemetry, with Ferrari making significant strides at the Circuit of the Americas in Austin. However, there’s still some catching up to do to match Red Bull and McLaren, who had a slight speed advantage in qualifying.

Ferrari in Mexico, seeking confirmation and aiming for repeat success

Speaking about Mexico, Carlos Sainz is optimistic about another strong weekend for Ferrari, while highlighting some complex tracks ahead. “I believe we’re back to having a car that, on all the tracks that await us – perhaps except for Qatar – can aim for victory. However, this doesn’t necessarily mean we will win races. As I mentioned, we’re not the strongest in qualifying, and on certain tracks, like Abu Dhabi, overtaking is very difficult. Thinking about finishing first from fourth on the grid isn’t always realistic,” Carlos ainz continued. “But we’re definitely aiming to be front-runners in the final part of the season.” – the Spanish driver pointed out.

“We want to be up there with the best. If we manage to do that, if we’re able to secure the front two rows in qualifying, we’ll have a hand to play. It would be great to keep up the momentum we started in Austin because I’m convinced there are still strong chances for the Constructors’ title. From tomorrow in practice, we’ll know more, but we’ll certainly give it everything we have.” – Carlos Sainz concluded ahead of the Mexican Grand Prix weekend.