The progress of youngsters like the Spaniard himself, Charles Leclerc, George Russell and Lando Norris, has opened the possibility for new faces to become the candidates for victories and titles if their teams advance enough.
So far, their rivalries have proven to be exciting but fair, and Carlos Sainz is keeping his fingers crossed that even when big results are on the line, they can all keep doing it the same way.
“I just enjoy fighting guys like Charles, Lando and I’ll enjoy George when I get the Mercedes next year,” explained the #55 Ferrari.
“It’s a generation of drivers that I enjoy battling with, even though I’m not exactly their age. I think they’re at a very good level, but in a way they also manage to be clean on track and create good fights.”
“This year, if you look at the middle of the grid and the way we managed to behave and compete, it’s been really positive.
“Let’s see next year if we are all fighting for higher odds if we can keep it that way, because I personally enjoy it a lot. But clearly I feel capable of fighting anyone.”
As well as Ferrari , McLaren is also hoping to make a good step forward in 2022, when the rules will present a good opportunity for everyone. And Norris will come to that season after a solid course in which he has learned a lot.
“There are things I can improve on, but I’m happy, it’s been my most successful season,” summed up the young Briton.
“Personally, I feel like I did everything I could to give the team the best chance to fight Ferrari. Although it didn’t go well, I think the way I started the season really put us in that position.”
“Ferrari were strong from the first race, and that’s what people don’t realise. They were super strong from the first race. And they got a lot stronger than us afterwards.”
“They did a good job, they did better than us and we have to try to do better next season.”
