Difficult finale in Abu Dhabi for Carlos Sainz and his performance with Ferrari
Ferrari driver Carlos Sainz’s Formula 1 season did not end as expected at the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix. The Spanish Ferrari driver failed to score points after a difficult weekend at the Yas Marina circuit. The beginning of the difficulties for Sainz became apparent on Fridaywhen he suffered an accident in the second free practice session, followed by a disappointing exit in the first qualifying round on Saturday evening.
This series of adverse events presented Sainz with a major challenge on race day as he started from 16th place on the grid. Ferrari, wanting to take advantage of the situation, opted for an alternative strategy and kept Sainz on the track, hoping to benefit from a free pit stop should the safety car be deployed.
Sainz’s reflections on a discouraging end
When Sainz was asked about how his race went, he expressed surprise, especially in the first section. “We were stuck on the hard tire behind our competitors and were sliding a lot.”, he commented. This situation highlights a recurring problem for Ferrari when they start with harder compounds.
ANDThis event marks a second challenging outing for Sainz, after the Las Vegas Grand Prix, where he started from 12th position and suffered a collision with Lewis Hamilton on the first lap. Sainz later expressed his wish to “forget” this weekend.
Highlights in a season full of contrasts
Despite these challenges Sainz had highlights in the 2020 season3, highlighting his win in Singapore and making him the only driver outside of Red Bull to claim a victory this season. Review of the yearSainz mentioned: “It was a very disappointing end to the last two races. Since the incident in Las Vegas, our season there seems to be over.”
However, Sainz also recognized the positive moments: “It was a season with very high highs and very good moments.” These words reflect a season full of ups and downs for the Ferrari driver, with the bright moments overshadowed by recent difficulties.