Carlos Sainz got behind the wheel of Ferrari Formula 1 machinery for the first time on Wednesday morning as part of the team’s five-day test at Fiorano.
Ferrari had initially wanted to run Sainz in last month’s post-season test in Abu Dhabi, in the wake of Renault receiving approval to field Fernando Alonso, but the FIA declined Ferrari’s request.
Sainz instead visited Ferrari’s Maranello base prior to the Christmas break in order to attend meetings and get accustomed to new colleagues.
Ferrari organised a five-day test this week with its 2018-spec SF71H, as permitted under Formula 1 regulations, and Sainz – sporting his race number of 55 – got on track in dry and sunny conditions on Wednesday morning.
Team-mate Charles Leclerc tested on Tuesday, following Giuliano Alesi, Marcus Armstrong and Robert Shwartzman’s shared session on Monday.
Sainz is due to remain in the SF71H through Wednesday, and on Thursday morning, before Mick Schumacher and Callum Ilott wrap up proceedings.
Sainz has joined Ferrari on a two-year deal after the team opted not to renew the contract of four-time World Champion Sebastian Vettel, who since joined Aston Martin.
Sainz has previously raced for Toro Rosso, Renault and McLaren in Formula 1.
He finished sixth in last year’s Drivers’ Championship, replicating his 2019 position, and claimed a career-best second at the Italian Grand Prix.
Discussion about this post