The Grand Prix of Emilia Romagna, at the Imola circuit, was the first ‘home’ race for Carlos Sainz since his signing with Scuderia Ferrari. The Spaniard did not disappoint expectations on the Emilian track, despite a difficult qualifying and a few too many mistakes in the early stages of the race, when the track was still completely wet. In fact, the former McLaren driver was very skilled in exploiting the mistakes of others and moving up positions after the red flag. In the end, the fifth place finish, after starting 11th, is certainly a result to be welcomed with a smile.
Scuderia Ferrari team principal Mattia Binotto was also keen to underline his appreciation for the performance of the newly acquired Maranello driver. Interviewed after the race by Sky Sport F1 , the number one of the Ferrari pit wall complimented the Madrid driver: “Carlos did very well , he is learning more and more, he is integrating” Mattia Binotto explained – “This race was not easy in the wet. He drove strong. It is very good, I’m happy. The qualifying session was an exception. I expect Carlos to be very strong also in the next races.” – he added.
Finally, Mattia Binotto was keen to deny the idea of possible behind the scenes ‘conspiracies’ hatched by Red Bull to avoid a standing restart after the red flag, which could have penalized Max Verstappen given the water present on that side of the track: “Pressure from Red Bull? I don’t know, I don’t think so. I don’t think the timing for the restart was long, I think it was simply technical procedure” – Scuderia Ferrari Team Principal Mattia Binotto concluded. concluded the Ferrari manager.
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