Sainz hopeful for strong race: "I think our race pace is better"

Carlos Sainz will start from the front of the grid for tomorrow's Belgian Grand Prix, despite not claiming the fastest lap in qualifying. Max Verstappen was on top but due to penalties, will start from the back of the grid. The Spaniard is aware work needs to be done but is hopeful for a strong race.

"It [qualifying] was okay, I'm happy to be starting on pole," Sainz stated after qualifying, before adding, "I'm not too happy to see the gap to Max this weekend and what Red Bull has on us. We need to keep digging as to why we are trailing them at this track."

Despite this, the Spaniard still understands the strong position he is in and what needs to be done at the start of the action tomorrow: "To start from pole is good and we'll try to win from there tomorrow."

Final lap in Q3 not as strong as hoped

To finish, Sainz admitted that he could've had a stronger final lap in Q3, but is excited for a better performance in the race, "my Q3 run one was cleaner, the out lap was a mess playing with the tow. In the end, I had to lead and I had no tow. It was a mess. The first lap was good enough for P2. Makes me wonder what will happen in the race. I think our race pace is better than quali pace."