Today's confirmation that Carlos Sainz Jr will join Ferrari as Sebastian Vettel's replacement for 2021 completes a remarkable recent career trajectory for the 25-year-old.
Less than two years ago, Sainz was at serious risk of being left without a seat as one of the most volatile driver markets in recent F1 history played out. This time around, he is the big winner, gaining an opportunity rarely afforded to midfield drivers nowadays by landing a race-winning car for the future. And it's one he has worked tirelessly to get.
In the early summer of 2018, Sainz was part of the gaggle of young drivers angling for moves within the driver market.