In a recent development, Carlos Sainz has been seen in Melbourne ahead of the Australian Formula 1 Grand Prix, igniting speculations about his return to racing. After a medical setback in Jeddah, the Ferrari driver appears to be in improved health.
Key Takeaways:
- Carlos Sainz has been seen in Melbourne, raising hopes for his participation in the upcoming Australian Grand Prix.
- Sainz is recovering from an appendicitis operation that forced him out of the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix.
- He is scheduled to undergo an FIA fitness test to confirm his eligibility to race this weekend.
Ferrari driver Carlos Sainz has been spotted in Melbourne, where the Australian Grand Prix is set to take place. This sighting comes after Sainz’s unexpected withdrawal from the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix due to a sudden bout of appendicitis, which necessitated emergency surgery.
The Spanish driver’s presence in Melbourne has been confirmed by Marca, a reputable Spanish newspaper, noting his apparent ease of movement at the airport—a stark contrast to his condition in Jeddah.
The spotlight now turns to Thursday, when Sainz is slated to undergo a crucial FIA medical examination. Passing this test is imperative for Sainz to reclaim his seat in the SF-24 and participate in all the weekend’s racing sessions. The FIA’s stringent health and safety protocols mandate the presence of a medical delegate throughout the assessment, ensuring the driver’s fitness aligns with the sport’s demanding standards.
Sainz’s potential comeback could mean a shift back to Formula 2 for Oliver Bearman, the young British talent who stepped in for Sainz at the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix, earning six points on his debut with an impressive seventh place finish. Bearman, a promising driver for Prema in Formula 2, had a taste of Formula 1 racing in Jeddah and stands as the reserve should Sainz not meet the FIA’s health criteria.
