Carlos Sainz Jr. believes that Formula One should reflect on Fernando Alonso's reasons for retirement and consider what they could do to overcome these.
Sainz is actually taking over from his fellow countryman at McLaren at the end of the season - with the Spanish veteran leaving behind a legacy in the sport.
Sainz is currently driving at Renault, for the last three races of the season, and he believes that Alonso leaving the sport is a clear indication that F1 needs a more competitive grid.
"I think the fact he is leaving is a big loss for Formula 1," Sainz said in Thursday's FIA press conference. "To not have one of the best drivers or the best drivers in motorsport at the moment in the grid is a big loss.
"So I think it is something for Formula 1 and to everyone to consider why one of the best drivers is leaving and why we cannot have a bit more competitive grid where many drivers can fight for wins or for podiums. I think it's a thing to consider and something to think about for the future."
Sainz described Alonso as his "biggest influence" to become an F1 driver: "I followed Formula 1, I met him back in 2005, since then I really decided that I wanted to be a Formula 1 driver and gave it all to come here. To manage to compete against him the last four years have been a dream come true. Of course we will miss him."
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