How has Ferrari’s favouritism towards Leclerc affected Carlos Sainz’s Confidence?

Throughout the 2024 Formula 1 season, Ferrari’s driver dynamics between Charles Leclerc and Carlos Sainz have attracted attention, with signs of favouritism toward Leclerc casting uncertainty on Sainz’s role and confidence. Although Ferrari’s strategic and technical improvements have positioned them as contenders against top teams like Red Bull and Mercedes, many observe that Ferrari implicitly prioritises Leclerc as their preferred driver, leaving Sainz in a secondary role. These dynamics, at times, have appeared in race strategies where Sainz is asked to support Leclerc’s race prospects rather than pursue his own best results, a factor that can undermine any driver’s morale in a team-based sport as competitive as F1.

Ferrari’s Team Principal, Frederic Vasseur, has remained clear in his support for Leclerc, viewing him as the team’s long-term prospect for championship contention. Strategic calls during several key races this season have reinforced this perception of favouritism, as Sainz has often been directed to protect Leclerc’s position on the track, even when he is performing well. This dynamic was on display in races where Ferrari directed Sainz to adopt tire strategies or stints designed to benefit Leclerc. Such decisions, even subtly, send signals about Ferrari’s internal hierarchy and may have lasting effects on a driver’s sense of value within the team.

Despite these challenges, Sainz has showcased his resilience on track. Ferrari’s technical strides this season have improved the SF-24’s adaptability, giving both drivers a more competitive platform. This has allowed Sainz to secure podiums and even a standout win in Singapore, proving his mettle as a driver. However, analysts argue that Ferrari’s internal favouritism toward Leclerc, while potentially strategic, could make Sainz’s strong performances feel under appreciated, especially as he works against both external competitors and implicit internal dynamics.

The situation at Ferrari comes at a critical time for Sainz, as reports confirm that seven-time World Champion, Lewis Hamilton, will join Ferrari next season, replacing Sainz and forming a star-studded line-up with Leclerc. For Sainz, this news further reinforces Ferrari’s clear commitment to Leclerc as a long-term asset and reshapes his role within the team for the remainder of the season. With Hamilton’s arrival set for 2025, Sainz faces not only the pressure to finish this season strong but also the prospect of redefining his career with a new team next year.

As Sainz completes his final season with Ferrari, he has continued to show professionalism, demonstrating skill and resilience that could make him a lead driver elsewhere. In a sport where confidence and trust within a team are paramount, Ferrari’s perceived favouritism could ultimately set the stage for Sainz’s fresh start at Williams in 2025, where he’ll have the chance to lead a team eager to leverage his skills and give him a stronger shot at achieving his full potential.