Racing drivers are often seen as tough, and able to handle challenges easily. Just a couple of years ago, Alex Albon also managed to race in Singapore after having his appendix removed, missing the Italian GP.
But what Carlos Sainz is doing now is quite remarkable. In Melbourne, he shared how his weekend in Jeddah unfolded. He felt unwell on Wednesday, missing media events, but still managed to complete 50 laps in practice on Thursday, even securing seventh place in the second session.
“It was tough to know it was appendicitis,” he said. “I had symptoms of food poisoning and a high fever. Despite medication, I realized I couldn’t continue like this. So I went to the hospital on Friday and was diagnosed with appendicitis.”
Sainz flew back to Europe after the race to start his recovery. He couldn’t do his usual training and decided to skip simulator sessions to focus on getting better.
“I’m feeling better each day,” he said. “The first week was hard, but in the second week, I felt much better. I’ve had a strong recovery plan since day one.”
He explained that thanks to medical advances, the operation wasn’t as severe as it used to be, which helped his recovery.
“It’s tight, but possible,” he said. “I won’t be at 100%, but I feel fit enough to race.”
He hasn’t been able to train as usual since Jeddah, but he doesn’t see it as a problem.
“The training I did in the winter keeps me in good shape,” he said. “I won’t be at my peak fitness level, but I’ll be fit enough to race.”
Sainz found inspiration in Albon’s similar experience.
“Albon went through this too,” he said. “He said it feels weird at first, but you get used to it. I feel better each day, so I’m positive about racing.”
Sainz is hopeful and will see how he feels once he’s back in the car.
Also read: Carlos Sainz’s Return: Uncertainty Ahead of Australian GP