Amid the intense fanfare surrounding Lewis Hamilton's debut at Ferrari this week, team boss Frederic Vasseur took a moment to reflect on Carlos Sainz, the driver Hamilton replaced.
Hamilton, a seven-time world champion, has dominated the headlines this week following his arrival at Ferrari and his first laps in a 2023 car at Fiorano on Wednesday.
Meanwhile, Sainz has moved to Williams for 2025 after his departure from Ferrari.
Vasseur acknowledged that Ferrari's other driver, Charles Leclerc, also participated in the test at Fiorano but conceded that the spotlight was firmly on Hamilton.
"Maybe today was less special for Charles," Vasseur said with a smile. "But it was good to see that he is fit and relaxed and looking forward to racing again."
Leclerc also admitted that Hamilton's debut overshadowed his own running.
"Of course, it was nice to see Lewis do his first laps in a Ferrari, which was a special moment for the team and for him," the Monegasque said.
Turning his attention to Sainz, Vasseur praised the Spanish driver for his contributions to Ferrari over the past years and expressed confidence in his ability to succeed at Williams.
"During these past years, Carlos was able to create a great relationship with everyone," Vasseur told Spanish broadcaster DAZN.
"Carlos is always at 100 percent - and a very consistent driver," he continued. "This has been a great advantage for us because when he was not in the top positions, it meant that the car was not capable of it.
"For us, it has been very useful for the development of the car."
Vasseur expressed his well-wishes for Sainz as he starts a new chapter with Williams under team boss James Vowles.
"I know Carlos is going to do a fantastic job with Williams. I wish him and James Vowles all the best," Vasseur said.
"I know them both very well, and I'm sure they'll have a great relationship."
Hamilton, who wore a bright yellow helmet, completed 30 laps at Fiorano on Wednesday and will join Leclerc again for further testing in Barcelona next week.
