Carlos Sainz thanks Leclerc for ‘amazing years’ in an emotional farewell to Ferrari

Carlos Sainz, now a former Ferrari driver, moved fans and colleagues by using his social media to bid farewell to the Italian team and his teammate, Charles Leclerc. In a heartfelt post, the Spaniard highlighted the “great moments” he shared with the Monegasque during their four years competing together for Ferrari. The post, made on the last day of 2024, marks the end of a partnership that yielded 10 wins, 46 podiums, and two Constructors’ Championship runner-up finishes.

Sainz is preparing to start a new chapter in his career by joining Williams for the 2025 season. Despite the change, he made it clear how positively his journey with Ferrari, especially alongside Leclerc, impacted him. “It was four incredible years fighting together for Ferrari, Charles. Thank you for all the great moments we shared. I wish you nothing but the best for next year and beyond!” Sainz wrote, sharing photos of the two drivers celebrating their achievements over the years.

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The partnership between Sainz and Leclerc was marked by a spirit of collaboration and camaraderie, something not always common in such a competitive sport as Formula 1. This tone of mutual respect and acknowledgment was evident in the farewell.

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The partnership between Sainz and Leclerc: a benchmark for cooperation

From the moment Carlos Sainz joined Ferrari in 2021, he and Leclerc demonstrated a productive working relationship that transcended the natural rivalry between top-tier drivers. Their collaboration was instrumental in securing significant results for the team, even during a period fraught with technical and strategic challenges.

Together, the drivers helped Ferrari achieve two Constructors’ Championship runner-up finishes in 2022 and 2024, competing fiercely against teams like Red Bull and Mercedes. Throughout these years, both drivers exhibited skill and commitment, ensuring Ferrari remained competitive in an increasingly fierce grid.

This partnership stood out not only for the numbers but also for the chemistry between the two drivers. Moments such as the 2024 United States Grand Prix, where Leclerc won and Sainz secured second place, exemplified the strength of this collaboration.

Memorable moments at Ferrari

Sainz’s four years at Ferrari were marked by numerous events and achievements that highlighted his skill as a driver and his role within the team. Some of the most memorable moments include:

1. 2023 Singapore Grand Prix: Sainz delivered an impeccable performance, securing a standout victory and breaking Ferrari’s drought in urban circuits.
2. Constructors’ Championship runner-up finishes: In both 2022 and 2024, Sainz played a pivotal role in ensuring Ferrari remained one of the dominant forces in Formula 1.
3. Iconic 1-2 finishes: Events like the 2024 United States Grand Prix demonstrated the duo’s ability to work together and deliver consistent results.

Sainz’s farewell and Leclerc’s future with Ferrari

With Sainz’s departure, Leclerc embarks on a new phase alongside Lewis Hamilton, the seven-time world champion, who joins Ferrari in 2025. This shift in the driver market reflects Ferrari’s ambition to reclaim the top podium spot, a feat last achieved with Kimi Räikkönen’s 2007 title.

Leclerc, in turn, expressed his admiration for Sainz and highlighted the positive impact he had on the team. The expectation is that, alongside Hamilton, the Monegasque can continue to elevate Ferrari’s performance, now with the experience of such a decorated driver by his side.

The emotional impact of the farewell

Sainz’s Instagram post quickly gained attention among Formula 1 fans, sparking an outpouring of emotional reactions. Many praised the tone of gratitude and respect in the message, highlighting the camaraderie between him and Leclerc. This gesture also underscores how Formula 1, despite being a highly competitive and unforgiving sport, is filled with moments of humanity and fellowship.

Furthermore, Sainz’s farewell to Ferrari prompted a moment of reflection for the “tifosi,” the passionate fans of the Italian team. Many expressed their gratitude to the Spaniard, acknowledging his contributions over four years with the team.

Statistics of the Sainz-Leclerc partnership

1. Joint wins: 10 wins accumulated by the duo between 2021 and 2024.
2. Podiums: 46 combined podiums, showcasing consistency.
3. Contribution to runner-up finishes: Crucial role in 2022 and 2024, with Ferrari finishing behind only Red Bull.
4. Iconic 1-2 finishes: Memorable moments such as the 2024 United States Grand Prix cemented the partnership’s impact.

Sainz’s legacy at Ferrari

Carlos Sainz leaves behind a significant legacy at Ferrari, not just for his on-track achievements but also for his professional approach and team spirit. He became an example of consistency and resilience, qualities that proved indispensable during pivotal moments.

His relationship with Leclerc is remembered as one of Ferrari’s most harmonious partnerships in recent years. In a sport where tensions between teammates are common, Sainz and Leclerc showed that cooperation and mutual respect could lead to remarkable results.

A new chapter with Williams

As he bids farewell to Ferrari, Sainz embarks on a new challenge with Williams, a historic team aiming to return to prominence in Formula 1. With Alexander Albon as his teammate, the Spaniard will have the opportunity to lead a rebuilding effort and bring his experience to help the team progress on the grid.

The move to Williams represents a fresh start for Sainz, who now assumes a leadership role. His goal will be to help the team overcome challenges and consistently compete for points, solidifying himself as a key figure in the category.

Expectations for the 2025 season

With many changes across the grid, the 2025 season promises to be one of the most intriguing in recent years. For Sainz, the focus will be on contributing to the development of Williams’ car and fostering a collaborative working environment. Meanwhile, Leclerc’s new partnership with Hamilton at Ferrari will bring challenges and opportunities as the team seeks to finally clinch the world title.

Sainz’s farewell post not only marked the end of an era but also highlighted the values of camaraderie and respect that defined his tenure at Ferrari. This combination of professionalism and humanity will be remembered as a hallmark of his career.