Carlos Sainz Jr on racing in the Gulf region: "I always liked the atmosphere of the modern cities"

Spanish driver Carlos Sainz Jr, who competes in Formula 1 for the Ferrari team, toured the Dubai World Expo 2020 on the occasion of the 72nd edition of the FIA Formula 1 World Championship. 

The Etihad Airways Abu Dhabi Formula 1 Grand Prix takes place from 9-12 December.

Sainz spoke about his hopes for the end of the season and praised his country's participation in the Expo.

How did you enjoy visiting the Spain Pavilion at Expo 2020 Dubai?

As a Spaniard, I feel very proud, I am impressed by the whole set-up. I don't spend enough time in Spain because of travelling and I live in Italy, so this was a good opportunity to remember my country and all the interesting places it has.

Obviously, Formula 1 is at the forefront of innovation: what innovations currently used in F1 do you think have the most potential to be used in the rest of the world?

We have the most efficient hybrid power units in the world: the effort made by all the teams and all the engine manufacturers to create such a sustainable engine is impressive. Next year, we will use 10% ethanol in fuel, which will also make it much more sustainable. Formula 1 tends to be a pioneer when it comes to hybrid technology for road car innovation. Formula 1 aims to be the first to try new things that are then applied on the road, which they have already demonstrated, so I'm pretty sure that whatever direction we go in will lead us into the future.

Formula 1 has also made great strides in recent years in terms of sustainability, a key message at the Expo, do you think it is setting a standard for the automotive industry and the world at large?

By 2030, F1 should have a net zero carbon footprint; it's an aggressive plan, but I'm confident we can make it happen. We all believe it will make the industry much more sustainable.

You are in the UAE for the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, what are your hopes for the race?

I'm hoping to finish the season on a high, hopefully a good top five, maybe even a podium [finish]. Things are starting to fall apart at the front, but I've felt very comfortable these last few races and I can't wait to complete the last race on a high.

The Middle East has become a big draw for F1, with four races in the Gulf now. What is it that makes this region so good for F1? And what developments have you seen during your time racing here?

I think there have been a lot of developments. I love racing here, I've always loved the atmosphere of the modern cities. People tend to get more and more engaged every year we come back, plus it's always nice to enjoy the good weather when you come from cold Europe. The race in Abu Dhabi is always exciting and hopefully with the new track and the new layout, it will be even more exciting.

How would you rate this season with Ferrari going into the final race?

It has been a positive first year at Ferrari for me. I had a big challenge to be fast and score points and progress for the team without any winter testing before getting into a new car, I think I managed to do that. I had some podiums and a lot of points finishes. I think I can finish the season well and I feel ready for whatever comes in 2022.