Carlos Sainz has responded to claims of jealousy regarding Fernando Alonso’s recent popularity and success, asserting that he is genuinely happy for his fellow Spanish driver.
While Sainz established himself as the leading Spanish driver in Formula 1 last season, claiming his maiden victory at the British Grand Prix, Alonso’s move from Alpine to Aston Martin has sparked a late-career renaissance for the two-time world champion.
Alonso, who won the championships in 2005 and 2006, has impressed fans and pundits alike with five podium finishes in the first seven races of the 2023 season.
Want to work in Formula 1? Browse the latest F1 job vacancies
At 41 years old, Alonso’s rejuvenation and remarkable pace have earned widespread acclaim.
Despite this, Sainz maintains that he harbors no bitterness towards Alonso’s achievements.
In an interview with the Cadena Ser program El Larguero, Sainz stated: “I see it and I understand it perfectly. It is natural.
“He has been a two-time world champion. So it’s not something that bothers or worries me.”
Aston Martin’s strong performance this year has broken the dominance of the “big three” teams, with the team currently sitting in third place in the constructors’ championship, just behind Mercedes and trailing Red Bull.
Alonso’s invaluable experience, coupled with the team’s impressive pace demonstrated during pre-season testing, has been one of the standout aspects of the 2023 season.
Alonso’s most notable result so far was a second-place finish in Monaco, trailing championship leader Max Verstappen.
In contrast, Sainz and Ferrari have struggled to find consistency, with only one podium finish for the Scuderia this season, courtesy of Charles Leclerc’s third place in Azerbaijan.
READ: Nico Rosberg makes claim about Lewis Hamilton’s new contract
Despite the disparity in their performances, Sainz remains unfazed by Alonso’s resurgence and expresses support for his compatriot’s success.
“The only thing I want to emphasize is that I am in Formula 1 for myself, but also for Spain, to give my country podiums and victories,” Sainz emphasised.
“But for Fernando, after so many years in Formula 1, seeing that people have re-engaged has to be very nice. I think he is enjoying it.”