Carlos Sainz says his “special” first day at Ferrari will be one “I will never forget” as he begins preparations for 2021.
The Spaniard enjoyed what team boss Mattia Binotto called a “tourist” look around Maranello, meeting his new team as well as completing a seat fitting ahead of a planned test in the 2018 car next month.
“It’s my first time in red, which as you can imagine is pretty special,” said Sainz, who also sat with Binotto and new teammate Charles Leclerc.
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“It’s a special day for me in general and probably a day I will never forget.
“I’m fully ready, fully motivated, totally refreshed for this new challenge. [Then there will be] Christmas, some holidays to disconnect and to make sure we will recharge the batteries as quick as possible.
“But you can be sure I’m going to be here pretty early in January to keep pushing, to keep helping this team to move forward and as quick as possible in the best direction.
“I cannot wait, to be honest,” Sainz added.
“Today, I had my first meetings, my first look around the factory and it is something that I will never forget and I cannot wait to do more often next year.”
Commenting on Sainz’s arrival, Binotto noted the 26-year-old will work with the same team that Sebastian Vettel had this season, make of that what you will.
However, the Ferrari chief has made it clear that Carlos will get the same opportunities as Leclerc.
“There is nothing written in the contract of Charles being the [team] leader,” insisted Binotto. “I think that the two will be free to fight on track.
“I think it’s important that they are not damaging themselves, that is clear, but I think that they will have equal opportunity, certainly at the start of the season.”
Earlier this week, Sainz said an emotional goodbye to McLaren, including swapping helmet with Lando Norris to honour their bromance of the past two years.
Then on social media, the British team sent a festive message to Ferrari asking them to “take care” of their new employee.
“To our friends at Scuderia Ferrari and to the famous Tifosi, today we want to send you a message,” the video, recorded in Italian, began.
“You were and you are among our oldest and fiercest rivals. We respect your history and legacy as we do our own. We relish every battle with the red team.
“McLaren and Ferrari are like two opposite poles that attract each other. You are both opponent and friend, and we have respect for the Scuderia and the Tifosi.
“So at this time of goodwill to all people, we send you a gift. We have looked after it for two years. We looked after him and helped him grow. Now, it’s your turn. Take care of him, like we did.
“See you on the track next year. Ciao and Merry Christmas,” the message concluded.