Carlos Sainz, a Spaniard, had one of his best performances at the Mexico City Grand Prix where he launched from pole position. Despite losing his initial lead to Max Verstappen, Sainz managed to reclaim first place and provide an impressive showing that was declared a “master class” by his race engineer, Ricciardo Adami. This marks Sainz as the first driver to win the Mexico City GP from pole position in eight years, and the first Ferrari driver to win the race since 1990. It also marks the first time he has won multiple grand prix events in one season; the first being in Australia which took place just 16 days after a surgical procedure.
Although Ferrari struggled to be a contender in the constructors’ title fight before the summer break, recent improvements have boosted the team’s standing to second place with just four races remaining. Based on the current trajectory, there is reason to suspect that Ferrari could be in the running once again by 2025. Sainz, however, will not be part of the team stating, “Honestly, I really wanted this one — I needed it for myself, I wanted to get it done,” following his win at the Mexico City GP.
Sainz had to work hard for his second victory of the season. After losing the initial lead to Verstappen, Sainz made a strategic comeback on Lap 9. Sainz did not let Verstappen stray too far from his sights and was confident in executing a clear pass that solidified his place back in the lead. He described it as a “high tension” moment due to an unfolding chaotic battle between Verstappen and Lando Norris. Verstappen was later imposed two 10-second time penalties during his first pit stop.
Once Sainz had reclaimed the lead, he reported an isolated misfire during the race which he attributed to the altitude and mapping. However, this did not deter him from maintaining his pace and race management. Furthermore, Sainz expressed concern over the radio about Ferrari pushing too hard on lap 49. The Monegasque driver, Charles Leclerc, wasn’t too far behind. After a close call with the barriers, Leclerc secured third place, aiding Ferrari in overtaking Red Bull in the standings.
Following his victory in Mexico City, Sainz admitted to being emotional as the Spanish national anthem played. Having his family present on the race day made the win more significant for him. However, earlier in the year, it was announced that Lewis Hamilton would join Ferrari’s team in 2025, leaving Sainz without a position, despite his competitive standings. Sainz will be joining Williams Racing for the upcoming season, a team that is currently trying to rebuild its presence in the Grand Prix.
The win in Mexico City was not only a personal victory for Sainz, but it also highlighted the significant strides Ferrari is making this season, in particular, their chances at the constructors’ championship win. While Ferrari started the season strongly, it took a while to get its development on track. Sainz’s success in Mexico, coupled with Leclerc’s recent wins, however, could potentially lead Ferrari to victory. And for Sainz, winning a constructors’ championship for Ferrari before his departure would be the perfect farewell.
