Carlos Sainz has always been there, but arguably never at the same level as Max Verstappen or Charles Leclerc over the course of an entire season. But the Spaniard has already set his sights on 2023. And this time, he’s confident that he can take the challenge up to his rivals.

Sainz currently sits 6th in the Driver standings. This is due to Ferrari’s missteps during the course of the season. That being said, Sainz has never truly been able to challenge Max Verstappen. The Spaniard knows this, however, he has plans in place to make amends in 2023.

While speaking to Car and Driver, the Spaniard explained himself. He began, “I wish I had felt a little more comfortable at the beginning of the season, to make things a little more complicated for Max and together with Charles fight a little more.”

He also talked about his plans and expectations for 2023. “My objective for next season is to start the year at the same level I am at now, which is very good, and to complicate things for Max [Verstappen]. New year, new car, new regulations, even with the floor, we have another opportunity.”

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Sainz has his eyes firmly set on the stars for 2023. However, before Ferrari can get there, it does appear that they have another crucial problem on their hands and the events at the Mexican Grand Prix have highlighted this.

Fans unsure if Ferrari can ensure safety for their drivers in “life or death” situations after Carlos Sainz gaffe

Formula 1 is a dangerous sport. Time and again F1 drivers put their lives on the line for our entertainment. That being said, F1 has taken massive strides in terms of driver safety. But the incidents at the Mexican GP have led the fans to believe that Ferrari have regressed.

Sainz was unable to undo his headrest after the race and couldn’t get out on his own. Even his mechanic struggled before helping him out. This has sparked outrage from F1 fans around the globe. One fan said, “Imagine [if] that happened in Austria. Wow.” Whilst another commented, “Not good to see, if he had to get out quickly that might be the difference to life or death?”

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Ferrari have had a dismal 2022 F1 season. But does the team from Maranello have it in them to regroup and come back stronger in 2023?