CARLOS Sainz is confident Renault can fend off any late challenges to secure fourth place in the Formula 1 constructors’ standings at tomorrow’s Brazilian Grand Prix.

The Enstone-based team hold a 30-point lead over their nearest rivals Haas ahead of the penultimate race of the season at Interlagos.

Nico Hulkenberg’s sixth-place finish in Mexico a fortnight ago tightened Renault’s grip on fourth place.

And Sainz is confident the team can maintain their strong form in a bid to finish ‘the best of the rest’ behind Mercedes, Ferrari and Red Bull.

The Spaniard said: “Mexico was an encouraging weekend and we saw a lot of pace from both cars.

“I’m pretty sure we can do it all over again and put another strong result together for the team to consolidate fourth place.”

Banbury-based Haas head into the race on the back of two grand prix where they have failed to finish in the top ten.

This has allowed Renault to all but secure fourth place.

But 2018 remains Haas’ best season to date and Kevin Magnussen believes the team have overachieved.

‘’We shouldn’t really be fighting Renault in Formula 1, because they have a lot more resources, a big factory and a lot more people involved,” he said.

“With what we’ve got, we use it a lot better than they do. That’s already something to be proud of.”

Grove-based Williams have not scored a point since September and Lance Stroll is looking to write a few wrongs after finishing last in Sao Paulo 12 months ago.

He said: “To be honest, there is not a lot I can say about Brazil as it is not my favourite track and it is rather bumpy.

“Last year I had a tough race and didn’t enjoy it. I hope I can turn this around.”