“You’ve had a very fast, unemployed driver win” – Christian Horner

Carlos Sainz made spectacular return to the paddock, collecting his third grand prix win of his career in Melbourne, on Sunday, after having his appendix removed just two weeks ago.

©ScuderiaFerrari media

Just two weeks ago Sainz was ruled out of Jeddah as he was taken into surgery to remove his appendix. Sainz’ was replaced by F2 driver, 18 year-old, Ollie Bearman who went on to finish 7th in his Formula on debut.
​
Carlos has had a strong opening to his 2024 season, and last season with Ferrari as Lewis Hamilton will be joining Charles Leclerc at the Italian team in 2025. After only starting two out of three of the races this season so far Sainz sits in 4th, only 11 points away from championship leader Max Verstappen.

Max Verstappen was aiming to match his record of 10 consecutive wins, but engine failure allowed Sainz to overtake him 2 laps in and eventually retire on lap 17. Verstappen’s teammate, Sergio Perez, would’ve been expected to bring Redbull home a trophy however failed to do so after finishing in 5th.
​
Perez like Sainz is currently unemployed after this season, leaving question marks around who will join the current world champion in Milton Keynes.

Bronwen Jones
writer @ F1 Journal