'Sainz important in development of Leclerc'

Ferrari was wise to bring Carlos Sainz to the team last year. This is the opinion of former Formula 1 driver Felipe Massa in conversation with the Italian La Gazzetta dello Sport.

After Sainz had spent two seasons with McLaren, Ferrari managed to win him from the British team. The arrival of Sainz was not immediately positive because at the beginning of the season his results were disappointing. In the course of the year, however, he managed to fight his way back and silence the critics.

Massa, who was under contract with Ferrari from 2006 to 2013, thought that bringing in Sainz was an excellent choice. Where he managed to finish fifth in the world championship, the Brazilian also saw improvements in teammate Charles Leclerc. According to Massa this is largely due to Sainz who has raised the level considerably.

While Mercedes and Red Bull Racing are again the title favorites next season, Massa firmly believes that the new regulations can bring about major changes. The South American therefore sees Ferrari fighting back among the top teams in 2022 and Leclerc and Sainz being able to fight for the world title.