Scuderia Ferrari Spanish driver Carlos Sainz has highlighted his “top priority” for the upcoming Las Vegas GP: steering clear of any issues caused by loose drain covers, a problem that abruptly ended his participation in free practice during last year’s inaugural event.
The 2023 Las Vegas Grand Prix saw a dramatic and highly controversial start when Carlos Sainz’s Ferrari SF-23 struck a loose drain cover just eight minutes into the first free practice session. The incident wreaked havoc on the car’s floor, leading to a red flag and setting an ominous tone for the weekend.
The fallout extended beyond the track, sparking outrage in the paddock and among fans who had to leave the stands before the second practice session could begin. Ferrari, meanwhile, faced a significant repair bill for damages caused by something entirely outside their control.
Now, as the event returns for its second edition, Carlos Sainz remains clear about his main wish: a weekend free of any such unforeseen drama. Reflecting on the chaos of last year, he stressed the importance of avoiding a repeat, both for the sake of the drivers’ safety and the integrity of the event: “That’s my number one hope for sure, after what happened last year,” Carlos Sainz explained in the press conference for the Las Vegas GP. “I hope that everything’s fixed this year, because I think it will be a lot better for the race and for everyone and obviously for all the drivers for safety.”
Last year, Carlos Sainz faced a double setback when the unforeseen damage to his Ferrari forced him to use parts beyond his allocation, relegating him to a disappointing 12th place on the grid. Although he fought back during the race and finished in sixth, it was a small consolation for a Ferrari team left frustrated by the turn of events. As he heads into this weekend, the Spaniard is determined to avoid a repeat of that chaotic experience.
Now, as he approaches his third-to-last race with Ferrari, the Spaniard is hoping for a much smoother weekend. However, he’s fully aware that the intense Nevada heat will pose its own set of challenges, making it clear that he must be prepared for yet another demanding race at the 6.2-kilometre Las Vegas Strip Circuit in Nevada, USA: “Looking forward to it. Cold weekend and different track than what we’re used to. Low downforce, low grip. So you have a lot of different variables that we’re normally not used to, and a lot of challenges ahead, like they were last year.” – the Ferrari driver pointed out.
Looking ahead to his final races with Ferrari, Carlos Sainz has made it clear that his primary objective is to help secure the Constructors’ Championship for the team. While he continues to focus on delivering strong performances, his ultimate aim is to contribute to a successful campaign that sees Ferrari clinch the coveted title, marking a fitting conclusion to his time with the Scuderia: “100% I believe we can do it and it’s within reach,” Carlos Sainz said. “I think we’re in the mix. At the same time, McLaren have a very good buffer to play with and two very strong drivers to get points every weekend and especially they have three tracks coming where there’s no reason why they couldn’t be also the fastest car.” – he explained.
“So to beat them will be extremely tough, but a great challenge to have ahead and something that makes me excited also because if we manage to get it at the end of the year, and manage to sign off the season with that championship, would be a great way to put an end to this cycle in Ferrari for me, and something that I would be extremely proud of and the perfect ending.” – the future Williams driver concluded.
Leave a Reply