Sainz points to Ferrari problems: "have to take a step with the engine"

Carlos Sainz couldn't even start the Belgian Grand Prix due to a problem with the exhaust and was able to watch the Formula 1 race from a distance. What does he think about his new employer's performance?

Sebastian Vettel has to leave Ferrari at the end of 2020 and Carlos Sainz will replace him. After two years at McLaren, Sainz makes the dream move, but in Ferrari's current situation that may not have turned out to be such a good choice. P13 and P14 at Spa-Francorchamps is nothing to write home about.

“Clearly Ferrari is the first one that is not happy right now. I think you could see clearly how much they struggled. [Ferrari] had some problems with the overall grip of the car but in general, I would say that they need a very big step on the engine coming," said Sainz, who is ahead of Vettel in the drivers' championship.

"I know how tough it is because it took Renault a few years (improving the engine) it’s taken Honda quite a long time also. But the fact that they are nearly there or at least Renault is nearly there, close to Mercedes, also shows that you can do it. For me, if there’s a team with facilities, if there’s a team with resources, if there’s a team with a lot of engine benches to try and improve, that’s Ferrari. So I’m sure the now is working flat-out and hopefully by the time I get there they’ve improved a bit and together we can do the next step," said Sainz, according to Racefans.net.