F1 News: Ferrari boss makes MAJOR statement on Carlos Sainz Australian GP involvement

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F1 News & Gossip

Ferrari boss makes MAJOR statement on star driver's Australian GP involvement

Fred Vasseur is hopeful of a Carlos Sainz return in time for the Australian Grand Prix

Shay Rogers

Monday 11 March 2024 21:57

Ferrari boss Fred Vasseur has offered comment on the possibility of a Carlos Sainz return to the track ahead of the Australian Grand Prix.

The Spaniard was forced to sit out of the Saudi Arabian GP after suffering from appendicitis, which required an operation.

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18-year-old Brit Ollie Bearman replaced him and shone on his debut, meaning that the team have a very capable backup if the end of March comes too soon for Sainz.

However, if Alex Albon’s miraculous recovery from a similar problem in 2022 is anything to go by, Sainz has every chance of participating in Melbourne if his recovery goes well.

Ollie Bearman finished seventh after replacing Carlos Sainz

Vasseur optimistic about Sainz involvement

Speaking about his star driver’s return, Vasseur is unsure of the timeline for recovery as he enters a week of rest.

“This I don't know, honestly,” he told media after the race in Jeddah. “The recovery so far is amazing, the fact he was able to come today to be with the team is a very good sign, and a very good support for us.

Fred Vasseur has been Ferrari boss for two seasons

“Now, he will fly back with me tomorrow [Sunday] and he will have one week of complete rest, and we will take a decision on when he has to fly to Melbourne in one week's time. But I'm quite optimistic.”

Having to sit out of the second race of the season was far from ideal for Sainz, who would’ve been keen to keep his momentum going after securing a podium at the first grand prix in Bahrain.

But that could make him extra eager to come back in Melbourne, with Ferrari the best placed team to challenge the dominant Red Bull currently.

Ferrari Carlos Sainz Australian Grand Prix Fred Vasseur Ollie Bearman