Sainz targeting home honours in Barcelona

Carlos Sainz is hoping to build on his impressive performance in the Azerbaijan Grand Prix last weekend by using a home-field advantage in Barcelona in the next race to claim more honours, in what he calls "the most special Grand Prix of the year".

Sainz earned a top-five finish in Baku and recorded 10 points in the process which takes his tally to 13 in the process. In the past he has enjoyed positive performances at the Circuit de Barcelona-Catalunya, and even though he was born and bred in Madrid, he considers this as his home GP.

"It’s the most special Grand Prix of the year for me," Sainz said.

"It feels so different to any other race.

"I’ve raced in three Spanish Grands Prix so far. Each of them have been very special and I’ve managed to get some good results here. I think that shows all the support I receive works. It’s like having an extra boost. With all the fans giving support, we become very strong!

"I hope I'm able to keep it this way this season and continue the good trend of results at my home race.

"It’s a track I know very well since I was young. We get to do the tests here, both in winter and after the race, so every Formula 1 driver is very familiar with the track layout.

Sainz revealed that he is in high-demand whenever the race takes place in his home country, where he even has a grandstand named after him.

READ MORE: Hulkenberg believes it is too soon to receive praise
READ MORE: Azerbaijan Grand Prix stars - No place for Hamilton or Raikkonen

"It’s a busier weekend than normal, but I enjoy that, and I realise I’m very fortunate," he continued.

"Wherever I go throughout the weekend, there’s always people cheering. It’s a real privilege to experience."

"It’s awesome to have my own grandstand," he grinned. "We started back in 2016 and ever since, fans have been so grateful and supportive so it’s totally worth it.

"We have nearly 4,000 fans this year, near turn five, and it’s going to be very special to drive past them on every lap. I can’t wait for it again this year and hopefully I can put on a show for them."