The weekend of the 2022 Formula 1 French Grand Prix started in the worst possible way for Carlos Sainz, who learned that he would receive a 10-place penalty when he was shooting in the first free practice session.
The Spaniard, together with his team, decided to mount a new electronic control unit, the third of the cycle, for which he exceeded the maximum limit allowed by the FIA of two. Thus, the Ferrari man must start the race at the Paul Ricard track in at least 11th position, that is if he makes pole position, although it is likely that they prefer to change more elements of the engine to renew the number of available parts and not receive more penalties in the remainder of the course.
Leaving behind the terrible news for the man from Madrid, he managed to start the day on Friday well, with a third place that became a first in the afternoon session, beating his teammate, Charles Leclerc, to be the fastest of the day in France.
The winner of the British Grand Prix did a good qualifying simulation with the soft tire and left the Monegasque behind by just over a tenth, while the Prancing Horse ‘s greatest rival, Max Verstappen, had to settle for being half a second slower.
This is how Carlos Sainz explained how his day on the French track went: “Today has been a positive day. The improvements seem to be working well and the car was running well, especially on the fastest laps, while the long runs have been a little more complicated by graining .”
Ferrari have introduced several new elements to their F1-75, and Maranello hope to make up lost ground with Red Bull after their spectacular start to the season. However, in France, there will be one factor that will decide the winner of the race, the weather, and not just the rain.
“It is clear that today’s high temperatures have been an important factor to take into account, but we have to calmly study how we can take maximum care of the tyres,” said Sainz.
“Given that on Sunday I will have a penalty, now we have to focus on preparing the car for the race. There is still room for improvement, so we will continue working,” concluded the Spaniard.
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