Reuters
Formula One F1 – Sakhir Grand Prix – Bahrain International Circuit, Sakhir, Bahrain – McLaren’s Carlos Sainz Jr. after qualifying in eighth position Pool via REUTERS/Tolga Bozoglu
Reuters
Formula One F1 – Sakhir Grand Prix – Bahrain International Circuit, Sakhir, Bahrain – McLaren’s Carlos Sainz Jr. after qualifying in eighth position Pool via REUTERS/Tolga Bozoglu
Carlos Sainz and McLaren ended their fruitful 2-year-long partnership on a high at Abu Dhabi GP. The Spaniard finished the relatively uneventful race in P6. His teammate Lando Norris finished just above at P5, helping the team finish 3rd in the Constructor’s Championship.
After the race, Sainz and his race engineer could not hide their delight over the team radio. After his engineer confirmed their 3rd place finish in the standings, the departing driver said –
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“Guys, congrats. I mean feels just good and you deserve it. We have done an amazing year, and I have been doing a lot of running for you.
“Woof! What a way to close it, P3. Bravo! Bravo everyone; congrats everyone in the factory, congrats Andreas and everyone.”
In trademark fashion, he got his vocals out for one last time with the team. “And for one last time, I will sing for you, Smooth Operator….’.”
It’s easy to understand the delight of the driver and the team. Coming into the season finale, they were trailing behind Racing Point by 10 points for 3rd in the Championship. Helped by Sergio Perez’s grid penalty, they had their hopes high.
And in the race, they benefitted from his retirement because of engine failure. This is their highest finish in what has been a rotten turbo-hybrid era for them.
But they have been turning over a page since Carlos’ arrival in 2019. Great way to end an excellent partnership between the two.
What next for Carlos Sainz and McLaren?
There’s plenty to look forward to for both Sainz and McLaren. In a way, both the parties are moving to greener pastures next season.
Whilst the Woking-based outfit is getting an ‘Awesome’ driver in Daniel Ricciardo, the Spaniard will fulfill his dream by switching to Ferrari.
Reuters
Formula One F1 – Bahrain Grand Prix – Bahrain International Circuit, Sakhir, Bahrain – McLaren’s Carlos Sainz Jr. in action during practice Pool via REUTERS/Tolga Bozoglu
He bagged the best points-finish of his career this season and showed his class yet again. So there’s plenty of positivity surrounding him.
However, he still needs to be ready to face the chain of fire that comes with driving for the Prancing Stallion. As for McLaren, they can keep building on what he started with the Honeybadger.
