Carlos Sainz Jr. believes Renault’s pace in Mexico is “a bit misleading”, suggesting his position in the order is more because opponents struggled.
Sainz Jr. finished third to Red Bull pair Max Verstappen and Daniel Ricciardo during both practice sessions at the Autodromo Hermanos Rodriguez on Friday.
It left the Spaniard ahead of the Ferrari and Mercedes drivers at the conclusion of the day’s running, but he was quick to play down the situation.
“To be P3, to be honest, seems quite a bit of a surprise to all of us,” said Sainz Jr.
“But I think it’s more due to Mercedes and Ferrari struggling a lot out there than us being quicker than normal.
“We are only one-tenth ahead of Toro Rosso, one-tenth ahead of Force India, but we are still 1.2 seconds behind Red Bull.
“So I think it is something due to the others more than our proper pace.
“It’s very nice to see the two Renault cars and Renault power units also up there.
“The team is working hard, the team is working very well in this part of the season to secure that fourth in the standings.
“But again, I think it’s a bit misleading, those time sheets.”
Sainz Jr. added: “I think I would be a bit naïve to think we’re going to be third on the grid,” he said.
“I’m always optimistic and I’m always going to try my best, but I think they had issues today, they struggled in the long runs, and they didn’t look comfortable.”
Renault’s strong showing was consolidated by the presence of Sainz Jr.’s team-mate Nico Hulkenberg, who placed fifth.
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