Formula One has a pool of talented drivers. Young drivers such as Max Verstappen, Charles Leclerc, and Lando Norris have amazing skills behind the wheel. However, there is one name missing from the list, and that his, Carlos Sainz.

The Spaniard has defended himself, stating that Ferrari didn’t sign him out of luck. Furthermore, Sainz loves to challenge these drivers during a race and come out on top.

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Carlos Sainz hopes to beat Leclerc at Ferrari

Many see Leclerc, Verstappen, and Norris as the future of F1, but Sainz feels he is one too. He knows he is as good as them, maybe even better. But one thing he is certain about is that once he is fully integrated at Ferrari, he will be unstoppable.

Speaking to Michael Schmidt in an exclusive interview with Auto Motor Und Sport, Sainz said, “If you sign a Ferrari deal, you must have done something right in your career. I always felt valued by all teams, from Toro Rosso to Renault to McLaren, even after I left them. When the public thinks I’m in the shadows, I wonder why.”

Formula One F1 – Steiermark Grand Prix – Red Bull Ring, Styria, Austria – June 25, 2021 Ferrari’s Carlos Sainz Jr. and Ferrari’s Charles Leclerc in action during practice REUTERS/Leonhard Foeger

“Regardless of who I’ve raced against, whether Max, Nico, Lando or Charles, I never had the feeling that I was slower than them or that I couldn’t do something they can. I’ve beaten everyone and always pushed them to the limit. I see this as an accolade. Max, Lando and Charles are among the top people in the field, also according to my own assessment.”

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I like the challenge of racing against them. And they made me a better driver. That also gave me the confidence that I can take on anyone when I came to Ferrari. If I integrate myself properly into the team and set up the car correctly, I don’t have to be afraid of anyone,” Sainz concluded. (Translated via German via Google)

Has Leclerc been beaten by Sainz?

The 26-year-old has hit the ground running for the Maranello-based team this season. Sainz has bagged two podiums, while Leclerc just has one under his belt so far.

In terms of driver’s standings, both drivers are close to each other. As Leclerc finds himself in seventh place with eighty points, and Sainz just above him in 6th place with just eighty-three points.

With the second half of the season about to start at Spa for the Belgium Grand Prix. Who do you will have the edge over the other? Let us know in the comments below.

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