Carlos Sainz confident in recovery ahead of Australian Grand Prix

Carlos Sainz says he is confident that he is well enough to take part in the Australian Grand Prix after appendix surgery.

Carlos Sainz in the paddock at the Australian Grand Prix. (Scuderia Ferrari/Supplied)

Sainz missed the Saudi Arabian Grand Prix a fortnight ago as he underwent last-minute surgery, with Formula 2 driver and Ferrari reserve Ollie Bearman making the step up to F1.

While Bearman remains on standby, Sainz says his recovery is progressing well.

“Since I’ve been in Australia, I’ve made excellent progress, feeling better day by day and I’m ready to get in the car,” said the Spaniard.

“I also spoke to Alex [Albon] who went through a similar situation two years ago and, although I’m not 100%, I expect to be able to drive.”

Sainz says he missed 10 days of preparation for the grand prix as he recovered from the appendectomy, with no simulator work or training time.

“The doctors who treated me were very good and the operation was the least invasive possible,” he said.

“After surgery I had to rest and therefore lost some training time, but the lost hours were replaced with physiotherapy sessions.”

“It also meant I wasn’t able to drive in the simulator as planned to prepare for Albert Park. But it’s not a new track and so I believe I can do well.”

Sainz was eighth-fastest in Free Practice 1 on Friday morning at Albert Park, completing 23 laps.

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