Carlos Sainz predicts Pierre Gasly could run the fastest 10k among Formula 1 drivers.
## What makes Formula 1 drivers fit?
Formula 1 drivers are extremely fit, coping with extreme G-forces and hot events like the Singapore Grand Prix.
They lose up to four kilograms of weight through sweat at Marina Bay.
## How do drivers stay fit?
Drivers split their winter break between the weight room and the treadmill or bicycle.
Carlos Sainz prefers cycling to running, but picked out Alpine star Pierre Gasly and Audi's Nico Hulkenberg as top runners.
Hulkenberg's fitness is impressive given he's the third-oldest driver on the grid at 38.
## Pierre Gasly's running ability
Pierre Gasly can run a 5k in 18 minutes and 18 seconds, as shared on F1's official website in 2020.
This time puts him in the highest percentile globally, although he's still some way off Olympic pace.
Gasly's fitness underlines his status as one of F1's best athletes.
And Carlos Sainz thinks Gasly and Hulkenberg would set the best time in the San Silvestre Vallecana, a 10km race in Madrid.
But Sainz wouldn't participate, saying "I would win it on a bike, but I don't run!".
So the question remains, can Gasly or Hulkenberg actually achieve the fastest 10k time among Formula 1 drivers.
The French driver, who turns 30 next month, will celebrate his 200th Grand Prix shortly before the end of the upcoming season.
Nico Hulkenberg's age and fitness level make him a strong contender for the top spot.
Carlos Sainz's prediction has sparked interest in the fitness levels of Formula 1 drivers.
## What's next for Carlos Sainz?
Carlos Sainz will continue to focus on his cycling and Formula 1 career, with the inaugural Madrid Grand Prix in 2026 on the horizon.
The event will bring together top drivers, including Sainz, Gasly, and Hulkenberg, to compete in the Spanish capital.
The San Silvestre Vallecana 10km race will take place in Madrid on New Year's Eve, with Gasly and Hulkenberg potentially participating.