F1 | Ferrari, Sainz: “We didn't expect to be so competitive in Monza”

Carlos Sainz was the fastest driver on Friday in Monza. The Ferrari driver immediately found himself at ease with the F1-75, which we remember will start from the back of the grid on Sunday due to the replacement of the power unit. However, the Spaniard doesn't give up, the fastest lap is there, but we will need to work a little on the race pace, given that with the same tires as Verstappen, the Dutchman consistently lapped better.

F1 | Free practice analysis in Monza: Verstappen flies on the race pace, Ferrari can keep the pace

“It was definitely a positive day – Sainz said. Coming from Spa, a low-load track where we suffered, we didn't expect to be very competitive here, but I have to say that from the first session the car was in a much better window than in Belgium. The times come easier to us and the stopwatch doesn't lie, so we were on pace and it was a positive surprise. It doesn't mean we are faster, I don't think so, especially in the long run but I think we are closer. The penalties will mix up the order a bit, some will start from the back, others further up and we'll see what we can do."