2019 will see Carlos Sainz, aged just 24, step into the team leader role at McLaren, one of Formula 1’s most iconic teams. A daunting task it undoubtedly is – but the Spaniard can at least count on being able to pick up the phone to Fernando Alonso, two-time F1 world champion and the man he replaces at the team, to ask for guidance.

McLaren currently find themselves in the leanest period of their illustrious history, having been winless for six seasons now. And with Sainz set to be partnered by rookie Lando Norris next year, the Spanish driver knows that the team will chiefly be looking to him and his five seasons of F1 experience to help spearhead a reversal of fortunes.

Yet while five seasons in F1 – with Toro Rosso and then with Renault – is not nothing, it’s hardly a wealth of experience, which is where Sainz’s friendship with the out-going Alonso could pay dividends.

“Definitely yes,” said Sainz when asked if he would seek Alonso’s counsel over the winter. “I look forward to meeting him in the off-season to ask him some questions about F1 and McLaren and also to speak to him not only as a Formula 1 driver but hopefully a bit more as a friend.”