P1racenews AI automatic summary:
Carlos Sainz has denied that he ignored a pre-race arrangement to not pass Ferrari team-mate Charles Leclerc during the Formula 1 Spanish Grand Prix last weekend. Leclerc was enraged when Sainz overtook him into Turn 1 on the third lap to go against what he believed was an agreement to maintain positions in the opening […]
Leclerc was upset when Sainz passed him into Turn 1 on the third lap, breaking what Leclerc thought was an agreement to maintain positions early in the race. Post-race, Leclerc mentioned a discussion between the drivers and the team where they decided to manage their tires at specific points on the track. Sainz made a move on his slower teammate, resulting in a minor collision and Leclerc losing time. Leclerc eventually reclaimed his position with a team order, but he was only four-tenths away from finishing ahead of George Russell from Mercedes. Sainz denied the existence of any pre-race agreement and stated he follows team orders promptly. Despite occasional clashes, both drivers emphasized that their relationship has remained good over the years and they handle disagreements between themselves. Sainz highlighted that conflicts are inevitable when competing at a high level and sharing the same track for the entire season.
