P1racenews AI automatic summary:
Carlos Sainz believes that Ferrari is “closer than anticipated” to Red Bull at Formula 1’s Japanese Grand Prix but admits
Ferrari has emerged as Red Bull’s closest challenger in the early stages of the 2024 season, led by Sainz after Verstappen’s retirement in Australia resulting in a Ferrari 1-2 finish. Despite Red Bull’s historical success at high-speed Suzuka, Ferrari showed promise with Sainz finishing third, just two-tenths behind the fastest time in FP1. Sainz expressed optimism about Ferrari’s progress compared to last season but acknowledged the challenge Red Bull poses. He foresees a tight competition this weekend with McLaren and Mercedes, with Red Bull slightly ahead. Sainz attributes his confidence not to his win in Melbourne but to Ferrari’s improved SF-24 car and consistent performance since the beginning of the season.
