Max Verstappen and Carlos Sainz made their F1 debut together in 2015. Both drivers were talented and quick, but it was Verstappen who caught everyone’s eye and succeeded first. But Red Bull adviser Helmut Marko revealed Sainz was simply unlucky to face Max Verstappen.
DISPLAY
The article continues below this ad
Marko revealed they had to choose between Max and the Spaniard for the Red Bull seat. He also explained that the decision to choose Max over Carlos did not sit well with the Spanish driver and his father.
WATCH STORY: Top 5 wins in Max Verstappen’s F1 career
DISPLAY
The article continues below this ad
Carlos Sainz was almost on par with Max Verstappen: Red Bull advisor
As reported by Motorsport-Turkey, the Austrian mentioned that Sainz was on par with the Dutchman during his first test at Silverstone. He also revealed that the recognition the Spanish rider has received after his performance in the 2021 season doesn’t surprise him.
“Sainz was unlucky to face Verstappen when it mattered the most. At the first test at Silverstone, we immediately saw that he was fast. He was almost on par with Verstappen. He was almost … But when we had to choose between Verstappen and Sainz, the choice was clear for us,” said Marko.
Formula One F1 – Abu Dhabi Grand Prix – Yas Marina Circuit, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates – December 12, 2021, Mercedes’ Lewis Hamilton after finishing second in the race and in the World Championship with race and world champion Max Verstappen of Red Bull and Third – Placed in race Ferraris Carlos Sainz Jr. REUTERS/Hamad I Mohammed
“Both (Sainz and his father) were disappointed with this choice, but his father was the most disappointed. We initially leased it to Renault because his contract was still running.” Sainz is definitely one of the best drivers.
DISPLAY
The article continues below this ad
He proved it. He broke Leclerc’s spell for me. If you look at 2021, Sainz was at a very good level in terms of speed and Leclerc had a lot of falls,” said the Austrian.
Well that’s a startling revelation from Marko as it raises the question of what would have happened if he had chosen Carlos over Max. But it’s nice to see that the Spanish rider has forged his own path and put in an impressive driving performance in the 2021 season. As F1 enters a new era, many expect Sainz to challenge Verstappen for the title. What do you make of it?
DISPLAY
The article continues below this ad
DIVE DEEPER
Did you enjoy reading this article? Download our exclusive app for 24/7 coverage, the latest memes and social media banter. Click here to download.
