Sainz suggests a solution for the limitations on F1 testing.

      Carlos Sainz, the new director of the Grand Prix Drivers’ Association, believes that Formula 1 needs to revise its strict testing regulations. Having moved from Ferrari to Williams for the upcoming season, Sainz has taken over as the representative for retired driver Sebastian Vettel in the F1 drivers’ union.

      "I had plenty of time to reflect this winter," he remarked. "I spent a few days at home, and the thought crossed my mind that perhaps my moment has arrived. I’m now 30, with ten years of experience in Formula 1, and I’m starting to grasp how this sport operates, including the interplay between driving, FOM, and the FIA, and how I can leverage my experience as a candidate."

      He has already begun to formulate ideas. He is particularly aligned with his fellow countryman Fernando Alonso, who often voices strong criticism regarding the strict limitations on track testing in F1. "As I mention every year," Alonso stated last Friday in Bahrain, "we are the only sport globally that allows its athletes just one and a half days of practice."

      Sainz concurs that the current system could be easily improved by incorporating track testing into the teams’ budgetary framework. "Several teams invest vast sums in simulator technology, flying drivers from various locations to England to utilize it," he noted. "I don’t see why we only have three days of testing. While it’s beneficial to conduct a joint test, I propose that we include the test days in the budget cap and let the teams decide how they want to allocate their funds—whether for testing or the simulator."