Sainz praises Verstappen and Red Bull: 'Especially after difficult start to season'

Carlos Sainz has nothing but praise for his former teammate Max Verstappen. He therefore feels that the Red Bull driver more than deserved his second title and passes the same verdict on the team, which has excelled in consistency all season.

Sainz says it is "abundantly clear" how well Verstappen has done this season. "Everyone can see how good he has performed, especially after not an easy start to the season," the Ferrari driver said at the press conference, broadcast by Sky Sports.

The Spaniard especially praised the consistency of Verstappen and Red Bull Racing. "[They were] strong in the areas we haven't been strong. Congrats to him and Red Bull, they fully deserve it," he added.

Asked if Verstappen has evolved as a driver since they were teammates at Scuderia Toro Rosso, Sainz replied in the affirmative. "8 years is a lot of years in F1, since day one to year 8 you evolve massively. he is evolving in all areas," said the Ferrari driver. He praises his former teammate's ability to improve step by step in all areas and is happy for Verstappen that this has now been joined by a competitive car.