Following the Australian Grand Prix, a press conference was held where the three podium finishers were asked about their experience during the race. The drivers Carlos Sainz, Charles Leclerc, and Lando Norris took P1,2, and 3 respectively, and with no Red Bull on the podium, this is a first in a very long time. After the race, Scott Mitchell-Mahm from The Race asked the three drivers a question via email which gives insight on what everyone thinks about Carlos Sainz Jr.

The question asked was, “First of all, to Charles and Lando, who know Carlos so well as a person and as a racing driver, do you guys think Carlos is underrated? And to Carlos afterward, do you sometimes think you don’t get the credit you deserve? Charles, perhaps we could start with you.” Asking the drivers about how much the sport values Sainz as a driver, Mitchell-Mahm takes the question to the man of the hour, asking him if he gets the appreciation he deserves.

To this Charles Leclerc replied, “I think everybody knows Carlos’ worth in the paddock. He’s one of the highest-rated drivers in the paddock. And he’s been extremely strong every time he was in a Formula 1 car. And he has showed it multiple times. So I don’t think he’s underrated for that.”

Getting to the main point of the discussion, the Frenchman said, “I think everybody knows Carlos’ worth. And that’s why I’ve said many times that I’m not too worried about his future, because I’m sure that many, many team principals are… He doesn’t say it, but for sure they are speaking with him!” After explaining that his teammate has many teams that want Sainz as a driver he concludes saying, “And I’m sure he will have many opportunities and he’ll just have to make the best choice for his career.”

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With this it’s clear that Sainz is a driver that is in high demand, and after his performance so far, there is all the more reason for teams to want him. While this was just Leclerc’s opinion, Lando Norris added to the answer.

Lando Norris on Carlos Sainz place in F1

The McLaren driver also has immense respect for Sainz and answering the question he said, “Yeah, there’s no reason anyone should think he’s underrated.” Norris continued “I think for the people who know him, know what he’s capable of doing, know his effort level, his approach and dedication to wanting to be one of the best.”

Carlos Sainz has consistently proven himself in both the races he participated. Even after the surgery, he emerged with a win which is extremely impressive. This was highlighted by Lando Norris as he added, ”But when you’ve worked with him, when you know what he’s capable of doing, and when things click, they click very well and he has performances like he does this weekend. And I would say all year, he’s proved to be a step up from maybe what he was last year. Yeah, you’re silly if you underrate him.”

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As it is clear from their replies that Sainz is one of the top-tier drivers on the grid with his performance this year worthy of fighting for the world champion title, but with the one-race disadvantage, it looks doubtful as Max Verstappen is continuing to push himself ahead. It’s still uncertain who would win the race if Verstappen didn’t have to retire, but a win is a win and we congratulate Sainz for it. That being said, which team do you think Sainz will be joining in 2025? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below.

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