Fred Vasseur firmly believes that Carlos Sainz is completely dedicated.
Fred Vasseur has quashed any hints of discontent with Carlos Sainz after being asked about the Spaniard’s state of mind with Charles Leclerc overhauling him as Ferrari’s lead driver.
In the early races of this year, Sainz emerged as the standout driver, securing three podium finishes in a row, including a remarkable win at the Australian Grand Prix. This remarkable performance came at a time when he was on the verge of leaving Ferrari.
Fred Vasseur: Carlos Sainz is ‘totally committed to the work’
Winning in Melbourne just 16 days after an appendectomy, the Spaniard was applauded for his performances while questions were asked about whether Ferrari made the right choice in retaining Leclerc and dropping Sainz.
Nevertheless, over the past four Grands Prix, Leclerc has reestablished himself as Ferrari’s primary driver, surpassing Sainz by achieving a score of 79 points compared to Sainz’s 53 points.
After his triumph at the Monaco Grand Prix, the Monegasque driver now holds the second position in the Drivers’ Championship, trailing championship leader Max Verstappen by only 31 points. Sainz, who secured third place in the race, lags behind by an additional 30 points.
The Italian media asked Sainz’s team boss about his driver’s “state of mind” amidst the shift in momentum. Sainz is currently negotiating his Formula 1 future and his options have reportedly changed from Red Bull and Mercedes to Audi and Williams.
His response was, “I think Carlos’ approach remains unchanged from when we introduced the car back in February.”
“He is a true professional, and his initial response was: ‘Alright Fred, it’s a challenging choice, but let’s persevere until the final corner of the last lap of the season.'”
Carlos is an exceptional professional who is fully dedicated to his work. I have full confidence that his commitment and contribution will persist until the end of 2024. I am extremely pleased with Carlos.
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Ferrari team boss denies ‘turning point’ suggestion
Both Ferrari team-mates have emerged victorious in a Grand Prix this season, making the Italian team the sole achiever of this remarkable feat following the Monaco Grand Prix.
Following their Imola upgrades, Ferrari has closed the gap to Red Bull in the Constructors’ Championship to just 24 points, igniting hopes for a possible title battle.
Vasseur, however, views this not as a turning point but rather as a step in the right direction.
He stated that in terms of focus, not much would change for the team. The entire team is performing well and their concentration remains intact. They are fully aware of their objectives and the necessary steps to achieve them.
Simultaneously, I am of the opinion that Charles can enhance his self-confidence through his Monaco victory. Having eagerly awaited a triumph at his home race for numerous years and enduring a prolonged period without winning, reclaiming victory undoubtedly amplifies one’s self-esteem.
Although I cannot determine if it will be a definitive turning point, I firmly believe it will be a momentous stride ahead. However, it is important that we do not alter our strategy solely based on our favorable outcomes in Melbourne and Monaco.
“We possess a well-defined plan, actively working on the car’s development, and have a clear understanding of the incremental improvements required. It is imperative to adhere to this approach consistently. The outcome of our performance in Monaco, be it satisfactory or less promising, does not alter our established plans; stability holds significant significance.”
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