Gracias, Ferrari! Smooth operator Carlos Sainz gets two more years with the Maranello team

 • Spanish driver Carlos Sainz Jnr has extended his contract with Scuderia Ferrari. • His new extension sees him staying with the Ferrari team until the end of 2024. • Sainz, and the Maranello team says all the hard work has paid off and the extension was a natural decision. • For more stories, visit Wheels24.

Carlos Sainz is "very happy" to have signed a two-year contract extension with Ferrari.

The deal, announced ahead of this Sunday's Emilia Romagna Grand Prix – the first of two home races for the Italian team this season – will keep the 27-year-old with Ferrari until the end of 2024.

Sainz was impressed in his first Scuderia season, beating teammate Charles Leclerc in the standings.

But the Spaniard has been second best to runaway championship leader Leclerc after the opening three rounds this year.

Sainz, who spun out on the opening lap of the Australian Grand Prix a fortnight ago, already trails Leclerc by 38 points.

Flair and consistency ??No wonder @ScuderiaFerrari and @Carlossainz55 have extended their partnership ??#F1 pic.twitter.com/Lk4D9vdQeT

"I am very happy to have renewed my contract with Scuderia Ferrari," said Sainz, who joined the Italian team last year following spells with Toro Rosso, Renault, and McLaren.

"I have always said that there is no better Formula One team to race for, and after more than a year with them, I can confirm that putting on this race suit and representing this team is unique and incomparable.

"My first season at Maranello was solid and constructive, with the whole group progressing together. All that work has been clear to see so far this season.

"I feel strengthened by this renewed show of confidence in me, and now I can't wait to get in the car, do my best for Ferrari, and give its