Carlos Sainz has reiterated that he has no regrets over his decision to sign for Ferrari next year, in spite of the marque’s disappointing performance through 2020.
Sainz was confirmed in May as Sebastian Vettel’s replacement for the 2021 and 2022 seasons, linking up with incumbent Charles Leclerc.
But Ferrari has struggled for overall pace this year and heads to the first of three home rounds only fifth in the Constructors’ Championship.
McLaren, meanwhile, occupies third spot in the standings.
“Definitely not,” Sainz said if he had any doubts. “I’m really comfortable with the decision I’ve taken.
“I have 100 per cent confidence in Ferrari people in what they do for the future.
“Let’s just remember that last year they were capable of doing seven [ed: nine] pole positions. So it’s a team that I think knows how to produce very good cars.
“Honestly I don’t think it’s ever a bad time to go to Ferrari.
“I think coming to Ferrari is such a unique experience, and such a special place for a Formula 1 driver, that I don’t think there’s ever going to be a bad time where you say I do not want to go to Ferrari.
“If you give me that option 100 times again I will always say yes.”
Formula 1 chief Ross Brawn had suggested that Sainz may be getting “nervous” over his prospects next season amid Ferrari’s recent form, which restricted it to 13th and 14thin Belgium.
But Sainz stressed he is more concerned with the misfortune he has encountered this year, which included failing to start last weekend’s event due to an exhaust issue.
“What makes me nervous is to lose 30 points through no fault of my own and that’s what concerns me right now,” he said.
“That’s what makes me go to bed and think ‘where the hell have I lost these amount of points and how is it happening to me’.
“But I’m fully confident and ready to go for Ferrari next season and I could not be more excited.”
