Vasseur Praises Sainz’s ‘Smart’ Move to Outsmart Verstappen

Fred Vasseur lauded Carlos Sainz’s strategic prowess in Mexico, hailing his decisive moves as key to his victory.

Ferrari team principal Fred Vasseur explained that Carlos Sainz showed “great intelligence” by letting Max Verstappen pass on the first lap in Mexico, attributing his return to victory on Sunday to his confidence.

Starting from pole, Sainz briefly lost the lead after running onto the grass following the first braking zone, allowing Verstappen through. However, he quickly overtook his former Toro Rosso teammate after the safety car, reclaiming the lead and holding it until the checkered flag.

Vasseur highlighted this move to let Verstappen pass, thus avoiding a time penalty, as “very smart.”

“Carlos was very smart, just as he was last week with [George] Russell. When you’re in a tight battle, overtaking and showing maturity by giving back the position, it allows you to make the pass again the next lap,” Vasseur explained.

“I think it was a very smart move because you can fight through three or four consecutive corners, using that experience, and again, whether or not you receive a penalty, you’re really pushing the limit.”

“He was very confident, giving up the position because he was convinced he could still achieve what he did.”

Carlos Sainz’s father also expressed pride and satisfaction after his son secured pole and victory at the Mexican Grand Prix.

“For me, obviously, I’m thrilled with the weekend. Not only with the race, where points are awarded, but also with his strong performance in qualifying.”

“I think he didn’t have much luck in Austin (where he finished second behind teammate Charles Leclerc after technical issues), but he was very fast there, so I’m pleased with his last two races – it looks like an exciting end to the championship.”

“I know that when he’s confident, he can be extremely fast.”

“Now, he’s likely very confident, or more so, with the car, which allows him to push his limits – that’s what yields results like qualifying and the race in Mexico.”