Mattia Binotto declared that he has the "best driver pairing" in Formula 1 as Ferrari announced a new contract for Carlos Sainz.
The Spanish racer has agreed to fresh terms with the Italian team, extending his stay until the end of the 2024 season. The length of the deal matches that of team-mate Charles Leclerc, with both racers now tied down for the next three seasons.
Sainz enjoyed a stellar first season with his employers in 2021, even outshining their golden boy Leclerc by finishing above him in the drivers' standings after finishing third in the Abu Dhabi finale. So far this year he has finished on the podium in two out of three races, but was forced to retire from the Australian Grand Prix after beaching his car in a gravel trap.
Ferrari team principal Binotto gushed about his drivers as the new contract for Sainz was announced. "I have said several times that I believe we have the best driver pairing in Formula 1 and so, with every passing race, it seemed a completely natural step to extend Carlos' contract, thus ensuring stability and continuity," he said.
"In his time so far with the team, he has proved to have the talent we expected from him, delivering impressive results and making the most of all opportunities. Outside the car, he is a hard worker with an eye for the smallest detail, which has helped the whole group to improve and progress.
"Together, we can aim for ambitious targets and I'm sure that, along with Charles, he can play a significant part in fuelling the Ferrari legend and will write new chapters in the history of our team."
While Ferrari were certainly much improved in 2021, Sainz did not have a car capable of winning the title at his disposal. That has changed this season, as the Prancing Horse have set the early pace in both championships, looking a cut above Mercedes for pace and Red Bull for reliability.
Leclerc has been the star of the show so far with three dominant performances, but Sainz knows he has a chance this year to live out his dreams of winning a race and becoming a Formula 1 champion. "I am very happy to have renewed my contract with Scuderia Ferrari," said the former Renault and McLaren racer.
"I have always said that there is no better Formula 1 team to race for, and after over a year with them, I can confirm that putting on this race suit and representing this team is unique and incomparable. My first season at Maranello was solid and constructive, with the whole group progressing together. The result of all that work has been clear to see so far this season.
"I feel strengthened by this renewed show of confidence in me and now I can't wait to get in the car, to do my best for Ferrari and to give its fans plenty to cheer about. The F1-75 is proving to be a front-runner, which can allow me to chase my goals on track, starting with taking my first Formula 1 win."
