SAINZ: I have to improve in every way I want to be a world champion

Carlos Sainz said it would be difficult to predict Ferrari's position in 2022, but if Ferrari can rise to the challenge, he is "ready".

Sainz had a great year with Ferrari, who made the podium four times and he took P3 in the final game, ahead of his former team-mate Lando Norris and current team-mate Charles Leclerc. Last season the Ferrari team also recovered. After 40 years of worst constructors' performance in the standings, Sainz ended the season as the best driver outside of Mercedes and Red Bull. The sweeping change in F1 rules in 2022 gives teams a fresh start, which could upset the competitive rankings of previous years.

The Spaniard said he was ready to fight if the team could compete at the top, but it was unclear.

He said: "Regarding Ferrari in 2022, it's hard to know where we're going to be, but I think the team has grown a lot, in the last season we've gotten stronger in terms of pit stops, strategy, tire changes, weekend performances and if this year's car is good, we're ready. ”

Leclerc admitted he felt the pressure from Sainz, who was beaten by his team-mates for the first time in his F1 career. This has reportedly led the team to discuss Sainz's contract extension after 2022, but the 27-year-old said he still wants more performances from himself, especially if he is challenging the top prize.

Sainz said: "I have to improve on everything, as a driver I've never been 100 percent happy with any aspect of myself and I think they all have room for improvement. Every year into winter, I know that if I want to continue my career as a driver and become an F1 world champion, I have to improve in all these areas. As a driver, I want to fight for the world championship and I am ready for next season's race. ”