Breaking: What did Carlos Sainz do to you? A response to the criticism against…read more

This article seeks to address the unwarranted criticism directed at Carlos Sainz, the Spanish driver who joined Ferrari in 2021 as a replacement for four-time world champion Sebastian Vettel. Rather than delving into his technical achievements during his tenure, the focus here is on the unjust hostility he faces from a segment of the Ferrari fanbase.

For some fans, Sainz has become a scapegoat for their frustrations, akin to a modern-day Pandora’s box that unleashes negativity. Complaints about the team’s performance or misfortunes often seem to be redirected at him. Accusations have arisen that he willingly joined Ferrari to play a subordinate role, yet his competitive spirit and performance have shown otherwise. In many respects, Sainz has proven capable of racing alongside his teammate, Charles Leclerc, whose raw speed often eclipses Sainz’s own.

However, racing is not solely about speed. A successful driver must exhibit a range of skills, including strategic thinking, adaptability to challenges, and the ability to collaborate with engineers on technical development. Sainz embodies these qualities, having demonstrated his value through four seasons with Ferrari. His performance statistics speak for themselves, countering the harsh criticism from some fans who take to social media to voice their displeasure.

Amidst speculation, some have mocked Sainz’s rumored move to Williams for the 2025 season, suggesting it signifies a decline in his career. Ironically, his technical expertise would have been a tremendous asset to Red Bull, though it seems Max Verstappen prefers teammates who do not pose a challenge. In contrast, Mercedes had considered Sainz, but ultimately chose to invest in young talent instead. This left him with the option of joining a struggling Williams team with aspirations of rebounding in the wake of regulatory changes in 2026.

At Ferrari, Sainz performed commendably but had to relinquish his seat to seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton, a decision that was difficult for team principal Frederic Vasseur, given his long-standing ties to both Leclerc and Hamilton. This change was not a reflection of Sainz’s capabilities but rather a strategic move by the team.

Despite the competitive nature of Formula 1, Sainz’s professionalism has kept tensions at bay. He prioritized the team’s welfare, yet popular opinion often suggests he acted out of self-interest, particularly when racing closely with Leclerc. This is a natural aspect of a professional driver’s job, especially in a team environment that encourages competition.

The reasons behind the hostility directed at Sainz are complex and may stem from deeper psychological dynamics among fans. Some may resent him for taking the place of a beloved figure like Vettel, whom they believe should have remained with the team. This sentiment, while understandable, fails to recognize Sainz’s contributions and dedication to Ferrari.

Ultimately, Carlos Sainz’s narrative with Ferrari is one of a committed professional who has faced the ups and downs inherent in motorsport. His performance has consistently matched that of Leclerc, both on and off the track. The treatment he has received from a portion of the fanbase is disheartening and merits reconsideration.

Fans should strive to shed their biases and appreciate the progress Ferrari is making, acknowledging Sainz’s role in the team’s history. His time at Ferrari is part of a larger legacy that transcends individual achievements, including those of legends like Michael Schumacher and Kimi Raikkonen. It is time to recognize the value Sainz has brought to the Prancing Horse and celebrate the journey ahead.