Carlos Sainz delivered an impressive performance at the 2024 Australian Grand Prix. Since his return to the F1 grid, he has become the driver that everyone is talking about. He showcased his skills on the Albert Park F1 circuit, and his former teammate has openly criticized the notion that Sainz is underrated.
Sainz made his racing comeback at the Australian GP after missing the Jeddah event due to appendicitis surgery. Many did not expect him to perform strongly, but to the surprise of his doubters, he achieved a sensational victory in the 58-lap race!
Following his remarkable achievement, there has been a lot of talk in the F1 paddock about Sainz being underrated in the sport. However, Lando Norris disagrees with this perspective.
After his heroics at Albert Park, Sainz has now won three races in the sport. Despite losing his Ferrari seat, his career is on the rise, and he has quickly become one of the most sought-after drivers in the market for 2025.
Norris has been vocal in stating that Carlos Sainz is not underrated among those who know him in the paddock. He also acknowledges that Sainz has elevated his performance. In 2022, Sainz was the only non-Red Bull driver to secure a Grand Prix victory.
Norris firmly believes that the current version of Sainz is the best one yet in his career.
Max Verstappen’s retirement in Australia has allowed Sainz and [driver’s name] to close the gap on him. Furthermore, considering the improving performance of the SF-24, the Japanese GP could pose some challenges for the dominant Red Bulls.
It remains to be seen if the Ferrari challenger will excel on the flowing Suzuka F1 circuit, and if Carlos Sainz will once again dominate the three-day event. All eyes will be on Sainz during next month’s Japanese GP.