With the prospect of back to back races awaiting the Formula One drivers, it wouldn’t be a surprise if they were a little daunted, but for Toro Rosso driver Carlos Sainz junior, the prospect couldn’t be more exciting.
Rounds two and three of the 2017 Formula One Championship take place this and next weekend, just seven days apart, in fact there will be only four days when they won’t be on track and part of that will be traveling from China to Bahrain, but as it is happening very early in the season, the drivers all charged up and ready to race…
How does Carlos feel about the back to back events in China and Bahrain?
Back-to-back race weekends don't really affect me in any way. You just approach each race with the same mentality, keeping in mind that you have two CONSECUTIVE GP weekends. The toughest part is getting used to the time change quickly, but that's not usually a problem for me. You just go for it – this is the first back-to-back of the season so it's still early in the year to feel tired!
What is his favourite food when traveling to China?
I love Pekin DUCK, it's actually one of my favourite dishes when I travel to Asia, especially China. Of course I always miss the Spanish or Italian cuisine, but I don't complain when there's Pekin DUCK on the menu! I have very good memories of the driver's DINNER we organised in Shanghai last year – all 22 of us got together in the city centre and it gave me the opportunity to do some sight-seeing… It's the only time I've been able to be a bit of a tourist over there!
So how’s his Chinese?
The only word I can say in Chinese or, better said, the only word I always remember every year is 'NI HAO'. It's a useful one to know, as I can say hello to everyone – I'm a very friendly person!
His thoughts on the Shanghai International Circuit?
I have to say that the Paddock in China is the biggest one I've ever seen, ENORMOUS! Before a session starts, I usually give myself about a minute of time to go from my room to the garage, but here in Shanghai it's a minimum of three minutes because the distances are so big! This means I need to change all my routine and schedule for China!
