Fred Vasseur has shut down any speculation about Carlos Sainz being unhappy after Charles Leclerc’s recent victory at the Monaco Grand Prix. Despite Leclerc overtaking Sainz as Ferrari’s lead driver, Vasseur insists that Sainz remains fully committed.
Carlos Sainz started the season with a bang, grabbing three podiums including a win in Australia, and this just days after an appendectomy. His performance sparked debates on whether Ferrari had made the right call in keeping Leclerc and moving on from Sainz.
However, the tide has turned in the last four races, with Leclerc outscoring Sainz by 79 points to 53, reclaiming his position as Ferrari’s lead driver. Leclerc’s win in Monaco pushed him to second place in the Drivers’ Championship, only 31 points shy of Max Verstappen. Sainz, who finished third in Monaco, is trailing by an additional 30 points.
With Sainz’s future in F1 still uncertain and his potential moves being speculated from Red Bull and Mercedes to Audi and Williams, Italian media queried Vasseur about Sainz’s mindset. Vasseur was quick to praise Sainz’s professionalism and commitment. “I believe Carlos’ approach is the same as it was when we presented the car in February. He is a professional, and his first reaction was: ‘Okay Fred, it’s a tough decision, but let’s push until the last corner of the last lap of the season.’ He is a great professional, totally committed to the work, and I am convinced that his contribution will remain the same until the end of 2024. I am really satisfied with Carlos.”
Ferrari is the only team this season with both drivers having secured a Grand Prix victory. Despite Ferrari being just 24 points behind Red Bull in the Constructors’ Championship, Vasseur downplayed the notion of a turning point. He emphasized stability and continued focus on the long-term plan. “Everyone is doing a good job, and we are completely focused. We know what we want to achieve and the path we need to follow to reach this goal. At the same time, I believe the Monaco victory can help Charles increase his self-confidence. He had been waiting for a home race win for several years and had gone a long time without winning. Returning to victory always boosts self-esteem.”
Vasseur stated that while the Monaco win is a significant step forward, it doesn’t change Ferrari’s overall approach. “We have a plan, we are developing the car, and we know what we need to improve step by step, and this approach must be maintained. Having achieved a good result in Monaco, or a less good one in other weekends, does not change the plans; stability is very important.”
Vasseur remains confident in Sainz’s dedication and looks forward to a strong finish to the season. Meanwhile, Ferrari continues to aim for consistent improvements, keeping their eyes on the long-term goals.
Source: Planetf1
