Carlos Sainz expressed his determination to secure a victory in the Mexico City Grand Prix before his departure from Ferrari at the end of the season. After Ferrari replaced him with seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton, Sainz celebrated his fourth career win and Ferrari’s first win in Mexico since 1990.
Describing the victory, Sainz shared, “It was an incredible triumph and an indescribable feeling. It had to happen here in Mexico, a place where I am deeply cherished by the fans, and especially with my family and friends who came to support me,” Sainz told television reporters.
When he learned that his entire family would attend this race, along with the car performing well, and in front of devoted fans who adore him, Sainz made a decision. He said, “I made up my mind to give it my all.”
Sainz also revealed his sentiment about winning at such a special track with his family present, saying, “I thought it would be incredibly meaningful if one of my last victories with Ferrari occurred at this unique circuit, especially with my family here. It’s the first time my mother has witnessed me winning, so I was eagerly anticipating it.”
The victory was particularly significant for the 30-year-old driver as he commenced the race in pole position but had to make a comeback from behind after being overtaken by Red Bull’s Max Verstappen on the first lap. Sainz reclaimed the lead following a safety car intervention on lap six and dominated the rest of the race, ultimately securing his triumph at the Autodromo Hermanos Rodriguez. “The podium ceremony was incredibly emotional. I even shed a tear during the Spanish anthem. Without a doubt, it’s one of the greatest moments of my career,” he expressed. “I really wanted to win a race in front of my mother. Moreover, the way the entire weekend unfolded was simply perfect.
Losing position at the start and then having to battle my way back against Max made everything more challenging. It probably makes the victory taste even sweeter because I had to put in a lot of effort for it.”