Carlos Sainz Jr is optimistic after setting the seventh fastest time in qualifying for the Monaco Grand Prix, which translates into a sixth place grid slot due to a gearbox penalty for Kimi Raikkonen.
The Scuderia Toro Rosso driver has been quick all weekend long around the principality, and admitted his delight to be starting on the third row of the grid, and is looking forward to another strong race on the back of his best result of his career two weeks ago in Spain.
Sainz revealed that he has been feeling comfortable driving his STR11 around Monaco so far this weekend, and certainly has confidence heading into Sunday’s race.
“I’m very happy with my qualifying and very optimistic for the race tomorrow!” said Sainz. “To qualify in P7 and then gain an extra position because of Kimi’s penalty – which means we start P6 – is a great position for a track like Monaco.
“I’m very pleased because to complete a good qualifying lap around Monaco means that you have a lot of confidence in the car and that you are pushing the limits… I’m definitely feeling very comfortable with the car and in the team and performances like this one confirm it.
“We’ve been quick all weekend and we have a very good car, so we can look forward to a very promising race tomorrow.”
