Formula 1 driver Carlos Sainz recently joined his father, Carlos Sainz Sr, a four-time Dakar Rally champion and two-time World Rally winner, for an off-road test with Ford Racing in Zaragoza. This session was part of Sainz Sr’s ongoing preparation for the 2026 Dakar Rally, highlighting the younger Sainz’s firsthand experience with rally-raiding through a Carlos Sainz Dakar test.
Experiencing Rally-Raid for the First Time
The test involved driving the Ford Raptor T1+ over a challenging gravel course, where Carlos Sainz Sr demonstrated his skills while his son sat beside him. The video released by Ford Racing captured the intense ride, where Carlos Sainz Jr realized the stark differences between his usual Formula 1 car and the rally vehicle.
Reflecting on the experience, Carlos Sainz Jr noted,
“It’s a different sport. It’s a different, completely different discipline,”
adding that riding shotgun was
“very physical… more physical than I thought.”
Navigating the Physical Demands as Co-Driver
Sainz Jr also shared his perspective on the role of the co-driver, which surprised him with its difficulty. As they raced through the rough terrain, he recalled moments where caution was critical.
“Like every three seconds I’m like, ‘Dad, careful.’ … We were sliding and I could see a massive stone coming towards me and we just miss it by this much,”
he said. He acknowledged the complexity of the co-driving role, stating,
“It’s the co-driver that impresses me… the co-driving is tough.”
Surprise at the Vehicle’s Performance and Driving Dynamics
When switching places, Sainz Jr took the wheel of the Ford Raptor T1+ himself, confronting a sharp contrast to his Williams Formula 1 vehicle. He was surprised by the differences in throttle control and speed handling.
“I didn’t realise… in the F1 car, we don’t go full throttle until fourth,”
he remarked.
Once familiar with the new vehicle’s characteristics, his confidence grew quickly. He praised the car, declaring,
“The car is amazing. It’s one of the best race cars I’ve ever driven. The faster you take a bump, the better.”
He also shared a moment of misunderstanding with his father, recounting,
“So he was like, ‘Flat out, flat out.’ And I was like, ‘Uh, downshift.’”
A Deepened Appreciation for Rally-Raid’s Challenges
Describing the day as
“one of the best days of my life,”
Sainz Jr expressed how this experience gave him a new respect for rally-raiding. He emphasized the contrast with Formula 1, explaining,
“It’s completely different to Formula 1. Is completely the opposite,”
revealing the challenges and unique demands of off-road racing.
Carlos Sainz Sr’s Continued Focus on the 2026 Dakar Rally
Following a disappointing finish to his 2025 Dakar campaign, Carlos Sainz Sr will keep racing with Ford Racing for the upcoming 2026 Dakar season. His preparation and the shared experience with his son underline the determination and resilience required in rally-raid motorsport, setting the stage for another competitive season ahead.
