Carlos Sainz: Ferrari closing in on Red Bull's pace ahead of Japan GP
- Planet Sport writer
- 5 April 2024
Ferrari's Carlos Sainz has voiced his optimism about the team's performance, suggesting they're inching closer to Red Bull's dominance than expected.
The insights emerged during the first day of practice at the iconic Suzuka circuit in Japan.
While rain marred the second practice session, the earlier Free Practice 1 (FP1) provided crucial insights. Red Bull's Max Verstappen and Sergio Perez set the pace, with Sainz closely trailing in third, just two-tenths behind Verstappen.
Expressing his satisfaction with Ferrari's progress, Sainz noted, "FP1 was a bit closer to the Red Bulls than I anticipated or expected, so positive signs from five months ago [in Japan] to now."
However, he remained realistic, acknowledging Red Bull's continued dominance, stating, "But they are going to be difficult to beat this weekend."
Sainz's confidence stems from Ferrari's impressive start to the season, highlighted by his recent victory in Melbourne.
Reflecting on Ferrari's performance, he attributed their success to a better understanding of the car, honed during pre-season testing. "After a good winter test, we understood the car well and found a good set-up that more or less seems to work everywhere. The car is just better this year, which helps," he explained.
With the F1 Japan Grand Prix marking the fourth race of the 2024 season, Sainz's optimism sets the stage for an exciting weekend ahead. Ferrari's resurgence, coupled with the competitive landscape featuring McLaren and Mercedes, promises an exhilarating battle on the Suzuka International Racing Course.
As fans eagerly anticipate Saturday's qualifying session and Sunday's race, Sainz's insights offer a glimpse into the evolving dynamics of the championship.
With Ferrari closing the gap to Red Bull, the F1 Japan Grand Prix presents a thrilling opportunity for the Scuderia to challenge the Milton Keynes-based outfit's supremacy on the track.
