Carlos Sainz’s participation in the 2024 Saudi Arabian Grand Prix has been halted due to illness, dealing a significant blow to Ferrari ahead of the race.
Sainz, who is set to be succeeded by Lewis Hamilton at Ferrari next season, will miss the race weekend due to appendicitis. He is scheduled for surgery and will be substituted by Ferrari’s young talent, Oliver Bearman, for the remainder of the event.
The absence of Sainz disrupts Ferrari’s preparations for the high-speed Jeddah Corniche Circuit, particularly heading into the crucial qualifying session. Despite participating in Thursday’s practice sessions, Sainz’s health deteriorated, leading to a diagnosis of appendicitis.
Replacing him is Oliver Bearman, an 18-year-old British driver and reserve for both Ferrari and Haas F1 teams. Bearman, who has shown promise in Formula 2, notably made his FP1 debut with Haas last season.
This unexpected turn of events sees Bearman becoming the third youngest driver in Formula 1 history. In an official statement, Ferrari confirmed Sainz’s absence and extended their well wishes for his swift recovery, stating, “Carlos Sainz has been diagnosed with appendicitis and will undergo surgery. Oliver Bearman will step in from FP3 onwards. The Ferrari team wishes Carlos a speedy recovery.”
