Ferrari shrugs: 'I'm very sorry'

Ferrari was on the podium once again during the Russian Grand Prix. The Italian team saw Carlos Sainz cross the finish line as third driver, while Charles Leclerc finished in fifteenth position.

It was a painful final spot for Leclerc who was apologised for by Mattia Binotto. "I'm very sorry for Charles. Our substandard pit stops cost us places, especially with Leclerc," the team boss told Speedweek. "I also attribute it to the very intense season, with all those races in quick succession. Fatigue undoubtedly plays a role here, but that can't be an excuse."

Binotto, on the other hand, was pleased with Sainz's performance. "He drove very strongly all weekend and didn't make any mistakes. As for Charles, the improved engine in his car worked well. Leclerc was close to Verstappen for most of the time, which shows how fast he was. Fifteenth place is a real shame, because not only did Charles get off to a fantastic start and then maintain a high pace, but he also moved forward with the perfect amount of aggression."

Ferrari are in fourth position in the constructors' championship. The Italians are 18.5 points behind McLaren.