Sainz: "Even if Checo passes me I will get him back later"

Carlos Sainz knows he has a big job ahead of him in the Belgian Grand Prix. The Ferrari driver will start from pole position, but behind him will be Sergio Perez in an RB18 that looks unstoppable on the straights. Sainz looks ahead to his chances and plan of attack at Spa-Francorchamps just before the race.

Sainz on battle with Perez

"It's tricky, it depends on the run down to turn 1 how the exit of that corner goes," Sainz said of his plan for the start. He will want to do everything he can to keep Perez behind him. "Normally, if you are within a couple of car lengths. Then you are vulnerable at the top. I don't care though.. even if Checo passes me I will get him back later.

Verstappen was very dominant in the RB18 on Saturday. The difference with Sainz's Ferrari was around six tenths, but the Madrid native believes the difference with F1-75 will be a smaller one in the race. Sainz will have to race smart to beat Perez and Verstappen. That may mean he has to hold back at times and make up the difference in other places or strategically. "We know there strength is top speed and ours is the corners, but we know this weekend that Red Bull have also looked quick in the corners. If he passes there is nothing you can do."

Sainz is concentrating first and foremost on a good start and will see things through from there. "I just need to focus on having a good start, a good exit out of turn 1 and lead into Eau Rouge and then see how I can break that tow. If he passes and try and get him as soon as possible, but I won't be too disappointed if he passes because there is a long race ahead", he concluded for the Sky Sports cameras .