Carlos Sainz has arrived in Melbourne in a bid to take the reins back from Ferrari super-sub, Oliver Bearman. During the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix weekend, Sainz had to skip his participation in the event after Thursday’s practice sessions and undergo surgery at a hospital in Jeddah to remove his appendix. However, despite this setback, he surprised many by showing up at the circuit on race day to support his team and offer valuable advice to his replacement, Ollie Bearman. However, before Ferrari can confirm whether Bearman will continue to sub in for the Spaniard for a second weekend, Sainz will need to clear the medical test which is slated for Thursday.

According to Miguel Sanz of Marca newspaper, who saw Sainz upon his arrival in Melbourne on Monday, there’s a noticeable improvement in Sainz’s condition compared to how he was during the Saudi Arabian GP. Sanz remarked that the 29-year-old appeared to be in much better shape and spirits. Notably, Sainz was strolling through the airport with a calm and relaxed demeanor, a stark contrast to his discomfort when he briefly appeared in the Jeddah paddock after his surgery. Also, the early arrival allows him to adjust to the time difference and get some extra rest before the race weekend.

On Thursday at Albert Park, the Spaniard is due for the FIA’s mandatory medical evaluations, which include a crucial driver extraction exercise. This test is quite demanding as it requires the driver to unbuckle the safety harness, remove the steering wheel within seven seconds, exit the car, and then return the wheel to its position within another five seconds. The test will also put pressure on Sainz’s abdominal/groin area affected by his recent surgery and will reveal if he has any level of discomfort.

While there’s little doubt that Carlos Sainz wants to get back in the car for the Australian Grand Prix, Ferrari team principal Frederic Vasseur wants to remain cautious with his approach.

Frederic Vasseur is critical of rushing Carlos Sainz back to racing

After the Saudi Arabian GP, Fred Vasseur provided insight into Sainz’s condition and the decision-making process regarding his future races. He revealed that the team was initially unsure about the severity of Sainz’s illness, thinking it might be food poisoning. However, as Sainz’s health got worse, it became clear that immediate medical attention was necessary.

Looking ahead, Vasseur emphasized the importance of prioritizing Sainz’s well-being over rushing his return to racing. He emphasized that Sainz would be given the necessary time to recuperate fully before any decisions are made about his participation in future races. “It is a huge recovery, and we have to be focused on Melbourne. He will have a good rest this week and we will see [if he races in Australia]. I don’t want to rush or something like, he is an adult and will take the right decision,” Sports Illustrated quoted the Frenchman.

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What are your thoughts on the matter? Will we see another super-sub performance from young Ollie Bearman or will the Spaniard get back to racing?

Carlos Sainz “Will Drive for Himself” Without Listening to Any Team Orders at Ferrari