Carlos Sainz has thanked Ferrari and especially the fans for their “incredible support” as he bids farewell to the Scuderia and moves to Williams F1.
His departure from Ferrari became official from January 1, with Lewis Hamilton moving from Mercedes to Maranello in his place – a transfer known since last February, but which only becomes contractual from the start of 2025.
Sainz was able to complete one final run at Ferrari's in-house Fiorano test track in December alongside his father, Carlos Sainz Sr.
“The legacy of Ferrari, the history books and everything else, I think that's something I'll look at more when I retire,” confides Sainz.
“When I'm sitting on my couch, as an older version of myself, I'll be like, 'That was cool, I was one of them and I'm part of Ferrari history '. And I think it will all become stronger later in my career.”
“Now I'm so focused on winning, the daily travels and everything else, that I don't have time to think about those things.”
Sainz also read a selection of messages from Ferrari fans to wish him the best in his future career, all very complimentary about how he has experienced his time with the Scuderia.
“I am reading all the letters I have received from the Scuderia Ferrari supporters clubs. I have read every one of them and I just wanted to say a big thank you for the words you used. “
“It’s an honor for me to see how much you love me, how much you’ve supported me all these years.”
“It makes me even happier to see, from what you have written, that you will continue to encourage me a little even after I leave Scuderia Ferrari.”
“For this, I thank you again for this incredible support you have given me. Ciao.”
For his part, Lewis Hamilton has not yet expressed himself in words but he has published photos of himself on a karting, when he was young, with a red helmet and suit. Likewise, he took a photo of himself skiing in a suit of the same color. Quite a symbol!
