Carlos Sainz will not be in action at the Saudi Arabia Grand Prix. The team informs that the Spaniard has appendicitis and needs surgery. Oliver Bearman will replace Sainz's spot at the Italian team in FP3 onwards.
Carlos Sainz reported sick in Saudi Arabia on Wednesday for the media day. A day later, the Ferrari driver drove in the first and second free practice sessions, but the situation has not improved since then.
Why Sainz is not able to race in the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix weekend
Ferrari stated the following in a press release: "Carlos Sainz has been diagnosed with appendicitis and will require surgery. As from FP3 and for the rest of this weekend, he will be replaced by reserve driver Oliver Bearman. Oliver will therefore take no further part in this round of the F2 Championship. The Ferrari family wishes Carlos a speedy recovery."
Oliver Bearman is Ferrari's reserve driver and is present in Jeddah this weekend. The young Brit took pole position for the Formula 2 feature race but will now not be able to participate. He will now make his debut in F1 after two tests at Haas in 2024.