Carlos Sainz at McLaren (2019–2020)

Carlos Sainz's tenure at McLaren from 2019 to 2020 was a transformative period for both driver and team, solidifying Sainz's reputation as a top-tier midfield performer and igniting McLaren's climb back towards Formula 1's competitive front.

How it began

Sainz arrived at McLaren for the 2019 season following two years at Renault, a move that represented a fresh start for both parties. McLaren was in a rebuilding phase, having endured several challenging seasons, most notably the difficult Fernando Alonso at McLaren-Honda (2015–2018) era. The team sought stability and consistent performance, qualities Sainz had demonstrated throughout his career, including his stint at Carlos Sainz at Renault (2017–2018). Replacing the departing Fernando Alonso, Sainz was paired with rookie Lando Norris, forming a dynamic new line-up intended to inject energy and a clear development path into the Woking-based squad.

The partnership's character

This partnership quickly became characterized by its positive atmosphere and effective collaboration. Sainz brought a blend of experience, technical acumen, and a smooth, consistent driving style that proved well-suited to the evolving McLaren chassis. Under the leadership of Andreas Seidl and James Key, the team began to provide a more stable and predictable car, allowing Sainz to consistently extract its maximum potential. His relationship with Norris was notably constructive, fostering an environment of mutual respect and healthy competition that benefited the team's overall morale and development efforts. Sainz often led the charge, demonstrating a knack for capitalizing on opportunities and bringing the car home in strong points-scoring positions.

Key chapter in the seasons

The 2019 season saw McLaren make a significant leap forward, securing fourth place in the Constructors' Championship – their best result in seven years. Sainz was a pivotal part of this success, frequently dubbed the 'best of the rest' behind the top three teams. His standout moment came at the Brazilian Grand Prix, where he secured his maiden Formula 1 podium finish, climbing from the back of the grid to third after post-race penalties. This performance underscored his ability to deliver under pressure. The momentum continued into 2020, where McLaren further solidified their position, finishing third in the Constructors' Championship. Sainz again played a crucial role, most notably with a second-place finish at the Italian Grand Prix, narrowly missing out on a sensational victory. The MCL35, with its improved balance and aerodynamic efficiency, allowed Sainz to consistently showcase his precision and race craft across a condensed and challenging calendar.

The legacy

The Carlos Sainz-McLaren pairing is widely regarded as a pivotal chapter in McLaren's modern history. Sainz's consistent points finishes and two podiums were instrumental in turning around the team's perception, transforming them from a struggling outfit into a credible contender for the 'best of the rest' title. His performances not only set a high benchmark for his teammate Lando Norris but also directly contributed to McLaren's upward trajectory, paving the way for their continued improvements. For Sainz, this stint at McLaren validated his talent at the highest level, proving his capability to lead a team and deliver results, which ultimately earned him a coveted seat at Carlos Sainz at Ferrari (2021–2024).