Ferrari’s Carlos Sainz shares a heartwarming message as ‘Pride of Spain’ Rafael Nadal announces retirement

Three-time Grand Prix winner Carlos Sainz is a huge supporter of Tennis legend Rafael Nadal.

Ferrari’s Carlos Sainz shares a heartwarming message as ‘Pride of Spain’ Rafael Nadal announces retirement

Carlos Sainz and Rafael Nadal (Via: Imago, Sky Sports)

Sports have a unique way of uniting fans worldwide, the same is true for athletes. F1 has over the years, seen many top sporting personalities grace the sport with their presence, and thus, on Tennis legend Rafael Nadal‘s recent retirement announcement, Ferrari’s Carlos Sainz has come up with a wholesome message.

Carlos Sainz and Rafael Nadal are both proud Spaniards and the former is especially, a huge supporter of Nadal. The well-known catchphrase, ‘game recognizes game’ fits very well here as both are proven masters at their respective sport.

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Nadal has bid adieu to Tennis after winning several grand slams and amassing an impressive winning record of 1080–227 (82.6%).

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Just admiration for you and your work during all these years. Thank you for every point fought and the unforgettable moments you have made us live on and off the track. You are a pride for our country and an eternal reference as an athlete and as a person. Now, to enjoy this new one and continue to expand your legacy.

Carlos Sainz via X

Looking at the reaction of Sainz, he has showered huge praise on the 38-year-old legend of Tennis. Moreover, has even not shied away from deeming Nadal as the ‘Pride of Spain’ because of what he has done on and off the pitch in his professional career.

Enstone-based Alpine keeping 2026 door open for Carlos Sainz

Carlos Sainz has joined the Williams F1 team from 2025 onwards. The 30-year-old had several options on the table including Alpine for next year but ultimately, he decided to put his faith in the James Vowles-led operation at Grove.

Carlos Sainz
Carlos Sainz, image via IMAGO

However, despite this, Alpine has kept the door open for a potential tie-up with Sainz in 2026.

If Carlos wants to come in 2026, we will be here.

Flavio Briatore via Soymotor

The three-time Grand Prix winner is easily one of the best drivers on the modern F1 grid. During the ongoing 2024 season, he amassed a victory at the Australian Grand Prix that was not expected by many.

Sainz has so far had a pretty successful four-year campaign with Ferrari and with just six races races remaining this year, he will eye to finish on a strong note. His place on the Maranello-based team has been taken by seven-time world champion Lewis Hamilton.