Carlos Sainz delivered one of his finest drives of the 2025 Formula 1 season as he secured a brilliant P3 finish at the Qatar Grand Prix — his second podium of the year and arguably his most impressive given the conditions and race dynamics.
The Ferrari driver capitalised on every opportunity that came his way, navigating safety-car phases, tyre degradation and the chaotic midfield battles with precision and calm.
Sainz: “I cannot be more proud”
Speaking after the race, an ecstatic Sainz said:
“I cannot be more proud. We got everything right today. We improved in so many areas and today there were a few opportunities and we grabbed all of them by executing a perfect race. I’m over the moon with the podium because it was unexpected.”
Sainz’s strong pace, tyre management, and consistency helped him fend off pressure from both McLaren and Mercedes drivers, securing a well-deserved podium behind race winner Max Verstappen and runner-up Oscar Piastri.
This result also marks an important momentum boost for Sainz heading into the season finale in Abu Dhabi, where Ferrari will look to finish the season on a high.