Carlos Sainz left the qualifying session for the Monaco Formula 1 GP with mixed feelings. The Williams driver celebrated the performance that took him to Q2 in difficult circumstances, but regretted the errors that prevented a better starting grid position.
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The Spaniard secured 12th place and was close to competing for the top positions in the midfield. Even recognizing the difficulties of overtaking on the streets of the Principality, he believes there are still possibilities to advance in the race.
Sainz especially highlighted his performance in Q1, held after a red flag interruption. According to him, the situation forced him to go out on track with used tires and still without ideal temperature, making the task even more complicated: “On the one hand, I am impressed to have made it through Q1, as I had no choice but to go out with a set of used and cold tires after the red flag,” he stated.
The competitor considered that attempt one of the best laps of his career given the circumstances: “It was probably one of the best laps I’ve ever done in that situation to cleanly advance to Q2,” he said.
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Despite his satisfaction with the initial performance, Sainz admitted that he could not repeat the same level of execution later in the session. He explained that some errors and front wheel lock-ups in certain corners ended up compromising his lap time.
“In Q2 I made some mistakes and had front lock-ups in some corners, which cost me one or two tenths. It simply wasn’t enough,” the Spaniard assessed, acknowledging that he missed an opportunity to get closer to the top ten.
Even outside the top 10, Sainz remains focused on this Sunday’s race: “We know it’s difficult to overtake in Monaco, but we’re not that far from the top ten. I will focus on making a good start and doing my best to get back into the points zone,” he concluded.
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