Sainz worried for long-term health in new F1 cars | Russell: It's brutal

Carlos Sainz says he is concerned about the long-term health effects the new Formula 1 cars could have on drivers, calling for a rethink on the philosophy as he fears "paying a price" with his career.

F1 has a completely new generation of cars for 2022 with a focus on improving wheel-to-wheel racing, and while that has so far materialised the cars are also heavier, stiff and have seen drivers suffer with violent bouncing.

Through the five races so far, many drivers have already spoken of the increased physical demands of the new cars, and Sainz went a step further ahead of this weekend's Spanish GP by saying they could have long-term effects.

"I think as drivers and Formula 1 we need to [consider] how much of a toll a driver should be paying for his back and his health in a Formula 1 career with this car's philosophy," said the Ferrari driver.

"I think we need to open the debate more than anything.

"I think the regulations are great, they're doing exactly what was needed for racing.

"But do we need to run as stiff for necks and back as we are having to run lately with the car mass?

"For me it's more of a philosophy question that I put out there for Formula 1 and everyone to rethink about how much a driver needs to pay a price for his career with his health to combat this. I'm thinking more long term."

Sainz admitted that the topic of health in a car was one that "drivers don't like talking about much, because we don't like sounding weak."

"I'm strong, I'm very fit and I consider myself one of the fittest drivers," explained the Spaniard. "I've never struggled in a Formula 1 race at all. But it's more long term and for the benefit of all of us."

Ferrari team-mate Charles Leclerc said he "didn't struggle as much" as Sainz