Ferrari's Binotto hails Leclerc-Sainz as the best driver line-up in F1

Ferrari sits third in the constructors’ championship after the first 11 races of the season, level on points with McLaren. 

Reflecting on the first half of the season, Binotto hailed his drivers for their consistent performances in 2021.

“The first I think we've got the best line-up for the entire pit lane and the second because we know Charles is a fantastic driver but is continuously improving, and we are pretty happy with that,” Binotto said.

“So great opportunities as well for the win this season, the first was in Monaco, for, the reasons we know it didn't happen. On the other side, Carlos is integrating very well, is integrating well is improving race by race is somehow.”

Ferrari slumped to its worst season in over 40 years in 2020 as it finished sixth in the constructors’ championship.

The Italian marque has made sizable gains with its power unit, while its chassis has improved significantly, highlighted by its showings around the streets of Monaco and Azerbaijan.

“Let me say that may say he is the benchmark for Charles as well, pushing him as well when conditions that are more difficult,” Binotto added. “As you said, 80 points each, showing how important this amount to have two good drivers scoring points for the constructors' I'm very happy with that. I'm looking really forward because I'm sure those two guys will give us a great success.”

Ferrari still hasn’t won a race since 2019 but its best chance of a grand prix victory came at Monaco and then Silverstone.

Leclerc claimed pole around the streets of Monte Carlo but his crash at the end of Q3 caused a crack in his driveshaft hub that ultimately failed on the laps to the grid, meaning he was unable to take the race start.

The Monegasque led most of the British GP but was overtaken by Lewis Hamilton in the closing laps.