FORMULA 1

Sainz will not race the Saudi Arabian GP: what is the reason for his absence?

Ferrari has confirmed the loss of Spanish driver Carlos Sainz for the second race of the season, despite him having complete practice sessions.

Jeddah (Arabia Saudi)Update: Mar 8th, 2024 07:04 EST

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Carlos Sainz will not participate in the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix as he will undergo surgery for appendicitis. Ferrari confirmed the news early on Friday after tests conducted at the hospital revealed that surgery was necessary.

The driver had been unwell since Thursday, although he completed free practice sessions seemingly normally despite having a fever and was able to fulfill the team’s work plan. However, upon reaching qualifying day, Sainz’s condition required a hospital visit.

Carlos Sainz has been diagnosed with appendicitis and will require surgery.

As from FP3 and for the rest of this weekend, he will be replaced by reserve driver Oliver Bearman. Oliver will therefore take no further part in this round of the F2 Championship.

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— Scuderia Ferrari (@ScuderiaFerrari) March 8, 2024

Bearman takes over for Sainz

From the third free practice session onwards, Englishman Oliver Bearman, Ferrari tester and Formula 2 driver, will replace him. Bearman will also not participate in the Formula 2 races this weekend. “The Ferrari family wishes Carlos a speedy recovery,” read the message from the F1 team. Sainz finished third in the first race of the season in Bahrain, behind Verstappen and Pérez, and ahead of Leclerc.