McLaren bid farewell to Sainz in touching video for Ferrari

McLaren has released a touching video message to Ferrari bidding farewell to Carlos Sainz as he makes the switch to the Scuderia for 2021.

The video features numerous members of McLaren, including Lando Norris, team principal Andreas Seidl and McLaren Racing CEO Zak Brown as it instructs the Scuderia to "take care of him like we did".

Sainz entered F1 in 2015 with Toro Rosso before moving to Renault with four races remaining of the 2017 season.

In 2019, the Spaniard joined McLaren and was partnered with rookie Lando Norris, a combination that helped the team climb to third in the constructors' championship this year, its highest position for eight years.

Delivering their message, McLaren personnel said, "To our friends at Scuderia Ferrari and to the famous Tifosi, today we want to send you a message.

"You were and you are among our oldest and fiercest rivals. We respect your history and legacy as we do our own. We relish every battle with the red team.

"McLaren and Ferrari are like two opposite poles that attract each other. You are both opponent and friend, and we have respect for the Scuderia and the Tifosi.

"So at this time of goodwill to all people, we send you a gift. We have looked after it for two years. We have looked after him and helped him grow.

"Now it's your turn to take care of him like we did. See you on the track next year."

In response, Ferrari tweeted: "Un bellissimo regalo." [A beautiful gift].

Un bellissimo regalo 🤗 https://t.co/grwsVBLxJQ

— Scuderia Ferrari (@ScuderiaFerrari) December 16, 2020

Related

F1 Off the Track

Young F1 star set to make McLaren debut in injury replacement

• Today 09:12

F1 Superstars

Marko reveals 'unbeatable' Sainz contract offer after confirming talks

• Yesterday 19:57