Sainz Jr: “This retirement hurts, but it’s F1”

Carlos Sainz Jr did not have an idyllic start to the season with McLaren since the Spaniard was the first to dismount at the Australian GP after only ten covered laps. Starting from 18th position, the former resident of Renault had, however, gotten off to a good start and hoped to get back on track after missing his qualifications.

“It’s a weekend to forget, commented the son of the double champion WRC the same name. It’s a shame to have lost the MGU-K because the race was going well. I had put qualifying behind me and was optimistic. I did everything I wanted to do. I got off to a good start, overtook four cars and found myself fighting for points, fighting with those in front. The car felt good and we had a good pace. The points were possible. »

“This abandonment hurts, but it’s F1, recalled the man who made his 82nd Grand Prix start. My season started with an unlucky weekend, but I hope we will have more positives to take away in Bahrain (March 31). »

His teammate Lando Norris finished the race, but the rookie had to settle for 12th place. McLaren left Melbourne empty-handed.

Discover the analysis of the Australian GP carried out by our special correspondents in issue 2208 of AUTOhebdo, available now in digital version on all platforms, and on newsstands this Wednesday.