Sainz Relieved to Prove Himself Amid Verstappen Focus at Toro Rosso
Carlos Sainz has outscored Max Verstappen in their opening Formula One races for Toro Rosso, despite the attention on his younger team-mate.
Carlos Sainz has expressed relief at making his mark during his rookie Formula One season with Toro Rosso, despite the intense focus on his team-mate Max Verstappen. Verstappen, aged just 17, arrived as the sport’s youngest ever driver and quickly attracted comparisons to Ayrton Senna. Yet Sainz, the son of rally legend Carlos Sainz Sr, has quietly outscored the Dutchman in the opening races of 2015.
Sainz’s performance in Barcelona, where he qualified fifth, drew particular attention and prompted some to call him the revelation of the season. Speaking to Spanish media, Sainz said he was pleased to have exceeded expectations and to have surprised many who assumed Verstappen would “destroy” him. He emphasised that Verstappen’s talent was not exaggerated, but insisted that his own results prove he deserves recognition as well.
Pressure from Verstappen’s arrival
The hype surrounding Verstappen’s debut placed Sainz in the shadow early in the season. Verstappen’s age and reputation generated headlines, but Sainz has used the situation as motivation. He acknowledged that public opinion can change quickly in Formula One and said his challenge now is to maintain this level of performance over the coming races.
