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Sainz: 'A bit frustrating to be fair'

Sainz: 'A bit frustrating to be fair'

09-05-2021 17:07 Last update: 17:08
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Toby McLuskie

Carlos Sainz finished seventh today in the Spanish Grand Prix but felt as though he could have put himself in a better position for the race in qualifying yesterday. The Spaniard started in P6, so lost one place in the race today.

Qualifying affected potential finish

When talking to Sky Sports, Sainz explained how qualifying could have meant a different race today but he was unable to put it all together come race day.

"Yesterday, I could have qualified P4 with a better lap. I felt I was pushing Charles. Whenever I was in clean air I was quick. The pace is there, it's just putting the weekend together."

He went on to add that, the hectic first lap of the race caused an issue for the rest of the race. "Not exactly sure what happened on the lap one and what I could have done differently to gain positions but from there it was a race of staying behind people."

Car felt strong

"A bit frustrating to be fair because today immediate in the stint I felt that the car was behaving well and that I was very comfortable with the car," said Sainz. "I knew a good start would be key and it didn't happen."

Factors cause issues throughout

Sainz then went on to add that a mixture of factors hampered his finish and potential overtakes today. "I wish I could have done a race in more clean air then it could have worked."

"Lando, I could overtake because we were on a big tyre delta and Daniel, for example we were on the same tyres, but I think we were 3 or 4 tenths better."