Sainz hungry for success in final Renault race

Carlos Sainz has spoken of his gratitude at having performed for a Formula 1 works team in the form of Renault, saying it is a dream come true, whilst previewing his last race for the French manufacturer at the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix.

The grid for the 2019 F1 season is looking significantly different to the current incarnation, with many incomings and outgoings set to see most teams field a fresh driving line-up.

Sainz is part of the shake-up as he will be leaving Renault for McLaren due to Daniel Ricciardo's move to the black and yellow outfit, but he remains happy to have had the opportunity to drive for his current team.

"I’ve really enjoyed my time with Renault over the past 14 months," said the Spaniard to renaultsport.com.

"They say Enstone has a family feel and I felt at ease and very welcome from day one. To drive for a manufacturer team is a dream come true and I’m very proud to be part of the history of such an important brand in Formula 1.

"On track, the results have been good on a whole, very consistent and that’s something I can be proud about. As a driver, I take with me very valuable experiences and I’m looking forward to staying part of the Renault family with McLaren next season. We still have this final race to focus on and that’s all I’m thinking about at the moment."

Sainz is looking forward to tackling the unusual surroundings over qualifying and the race proper at Yas Marina.

"I quite enjoy these races under the lights," he continued.

And my start... another good one ???? pic.twitter.com/Sqe8SxXQma — Carlos Sainz (@Carlossainz55) November 13, 2018

"Yas Marina is a nice circuit with incredible facilities and it’s a great location for the season finale. It’s cool to start the race in daylight and finish it under the night sky, I really like that. In terms of a lap, there’s a lot going on. There are long straights, which bring overtaking opportunities, fast sweeping corners and also some tight turns.

"We’ll be doing our homework to ensure we’re best prepared and can hit the ground running right from Friday practice."

MORE: Floersch undergoes 11-hour operation after Macau crash
MORE: Hamilton 'out-raced and out-drove' Vettel