Carlos Sainz has proven time and time again that being overlooked only makes him stronger.
Back in 2016, Red Bull Racing chose Max Verstappen over him – a move that would’ve crushed many drivers. But not Sainz.
“He keeps improving every year,” says his father, rally legend Carlos Sainz Sr. “I don’t think people really understand just how good he is.”
The younger Sainz started his F1 journey with Toro Rosso in 2015, going head-to-head with Verstappen for that coveted Red Bull seat. When Verstappen got the nod, Sainz found himself temporarily in the shadows.
But here’s the thing about shadows – they’re temporary.
Instead of letting Red Bull’s rejection define him, Sainz carved his own path to the top. He worked his way through the grid, eventually landing at Ferrari – arguably the most prestigious team in F1 history.
“Just imagine being a Ferrari driver,” his father says proudly. “It’s not easy, you know. Neither was driving for McLaren before that.”
Now Sainz faces another challenge. Ferrari recently announced they’re bringing in Lewis Hamilton for 2025, leaving the Spaniard to find a new home at Williams.
But if history’s taught us anything, it’s that counting out Carlos Sainz is a bad bet.
“I think Carlos’ best version is still to come,” his father insists. “Some drivers burst onto the scene and that’s it – they peak early. But Carlos? He just keeps getting better every single year.”
Given his track record of turning setbacks into comebacks, you’d be brave to bet against him doing it again.
