Carlos Sainz Picks His Top 3 Contenders for a Potential Title Fight Next Season

Carlos Sainz has had a strong debut season with Ferrari. Quickly adjusting to his car, the Spaniard ended the season with four podiums and outperformed his teammate, Charles Leclerc. Thus, Sainz looks unstoppable in Red. As a result, the driver looks forward to the 2022 season, and even for a probable fight for the crown.

However, if Sainz were to battle for the title, according to him, he’ll have three drivers standing between him and the trophy. “I enjoy playing with drivers like Charles, Lando, and George who moved to Mercedes. A generation that I enjoy fighting, even if I’m not the same age.”

The 27-year old held his younger generation in high praise. “I think they’re at a very good level, but they also know how to keep the track clean and fight well.” 

A fair analysis on Sainz’s behalf, Leclerc would be the obvious rival; sharing identical machinery, he is bound to be weighed against his teammate. However, Leclerc has been a spectacular driver this season, just one down on his luck.

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Next, Sainz’s mention of his best bud Norris is a fair one. Watching Lando Norris push his McLaren to the absolute limit has been a glimpse of what is coming for the Brit in 2022. And finally, George Russell in a Mercedes. An awaited force that has finally taken form. However, Sainz has been a different man in the Ferrari tub, one well equipped to bag the championship.

Carlos Sainz hopes for wins in 2022

Despite the competition in front of him, Sainz is confident in himself. “Next year, we’ll see if we can keep it while we’re all fighting for higher positions because I’m enjoying it a lot. But I definitely think I have the capacity to fight anyone.”

Despite the assurance in himself, Sainz worries about adjusting to the new car. “I want the 2022 car to be easy to drive, rocket-like and we want to be on top.” Although, having had adjusted to multiple cars in his career, it shouldn’t be too difficult for the driver. “I adapt well to each car and I’m working on it in the simulator. I tried the car in the simulator, it’s very different in terms of driving.”

Nonetheless, Sainz has a simple goal. “I want to fight to be on top with Ferrari next year. I also want to experience the feeling of being in the fight for my first win and championship.”

Regardless of his worries, it would be anxiety all drivers on the grid will face. Further, Ferrari has been extremely optimistic about the beast they’re brewing in Maranello. With the Chilli in the mix, surely Sainz will achieve the wins he wishes for in 2022.

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