Ferrari driver Carlos Sainz fears that the French Grand Prix, round 12 of the 2022 Formula One World Championship, will be tougher than expected as he faces back-off penalties for changing parts of the power unit.
The Spaniard set the fastest time in Paul Ricard’s second practice session, but will fall back 10 centers As a result of changing the electronic system in its power unit.
It is also expected that Ferrari will change the engine, which means that Sainz will start from the rear of the grid on Sunday.
“It was a positive day,” Sainz said after Friday’s testing ended. I didn’t complete many laps in the qualifying sims with little fuel. But I realized I was very competitive.”
He continued: “It shows that the steps we have taken and the direction we have taken are in the right direction. I was focusing more on the race simulations because I wouldn’t be competing for pole position due to the penalties. We have to work a little bit on these experiences.”
As a result of the soaring temperatures in the south of France, tire management strategy is expected to play a key factor on Sunday. But when asked about preparations for the race, Sainz raised another potential problem.
“I tried to overtake some of the other cars, because I will need to overtake a lot in the race,” he said. And I have to say it was more difficult than expected.”
He added: “The main reason for this is headwinds on the rear of the cars on the straight lane, and with this wind, the effectiveness of the aerodynamic system and the drag reduction system becomes low.”
He continued, “But I have no other choice. I have to find other ways to overtake and the best way to do that is to be a little faster on Sunday.”
As for his colleague Charles Leclerc, Monegasque appeared satisfied with his performance in the sessions in general.
He said: “It went really well in the practice sessions. Both were good speeds in qualifying, so our focus now will be on our racing speed.”
He added: “Tire management will play the main role due to the high temperatures this weekend. I am sure we will be ready on Sunday, as we know where we have to improve.”