In anticipation of the 2026 Dakar Rally, Formula 1 driver Carlos Sainz has posted an emotional tribute to his father, rally legend Carlos Sainz Sr, reaffirming his admiration for the motorsport veteran’s perseverance and achievements. Sainz Sr, preparing for his 19th attempt at this challenging event, will compete from January 3 to 17, 2026, marking another milestone in his illustrious career and strengthening the bond that unites the Sainz family through racing.
A Storied Dakar History for Carlos Sainz Sr
At 63 years old, Carlos Sainz Sr has established a formidable legacy at the Dakar Rally. Over nearly two decades, he has secured four overall victories, appeared on the podium six times, and clinched 42 individual stage wins. This consistent track record has earned him recognition as one of the sport’s most determined and successful competitors. His experience and resilience have made him an inspiration not only to his son but to fellow drivers and fans alike.
Personal Reflections from Carlos Sainz Jr
The personal connection between father and son is evident in Carlos Sainz Jr’s recent message, which draws from firsthand experience co-driving with Sainz Sr. Last summer, the younger Sainz had the chance to occupy both the co-driver’s and driver’s seats alongside his father in the Ford Raptor T1+, providing him with unique insight into the demands and intensity of the Dakar Rally.
“I have watched you take on this challenge for years,”
Carlos Sainz Jr shared. – Williams Formula 1 Driver
“I experienced a small taste of it last summer and my admiration towards you and what you do keeps increasing. Good luck at the Dakar, Dad. Proud of you for the way you keep pushing and raising the bar! Vamos!”
– Williams Formula 1 Driver
Team and Strategy for Dakar 2026
Sainz Sr will once again be accompanied by co-driver Lucas Cruz, his long-time collaborator. The Sainz-Cruz partnership has been crucial to their Dakar successes, including the first victory by a Spanish team in the Rally’s history, cementing their status as top contenders for 2026. They aim to drive the Ford Raptor T1+ to another triumph, leveraging their combined experience and preparation from previous years.
“We’re more confident than last year because we’ve covered more kilometres and know the car a little better,”
Carlos Sainz Sr commented ahead of the event. – Rally Driver
The driver emphasized that enhanced familiarity with the car, improved reliability, and understanding of its nuances will be key as they prepare for the upcoming rally. Equalised technical regulations mean that the competition will largely come down to which team can optimize their performance while avoiding mechanical setbacks.
Anticipating Fierce Rivalry Among Top Drivers
For the 2026 edition, Sainz Sr noted the impressive depth of the field, with more than 15 vehicles seen as potential winners. With accomplished rivals such as Sébastien Loeb, Nasser Al Attiyah, Nani Roma, Mattias Ekström, Mitch Guthrie, Lucas Moraes—the reigning world champion—Seth Quintero, Joao Ferreira, and Henk Lategan all vying for supremacy, competition promises to be intense and thrilling for racing fans.
Carlos Sainz Sr remarked that the challenge presented by this influx of accomplished drivers from varying backgrounds contributes a sense of excitement, as the event’s outcome becomes even less predictable and the pace is expected to be relentless from the outset.
“With this new generation of drivers, the number of potential winners has increased. We saw it in the Morocco Rally. [Sébastien] Loeb, [Nasser] Al Attiyah will always be there, along with Nani [Roma] and me. Still, there will also be Mattias [Ekström] and Mitch [Guthrie], Lucas Moraes —world champion—, Seth Quintero, Joao Ferreira, Henk Lategan… a series of drivers who have first-rate cars and are very fast, and I’m sure I’m leaving some out. But our goal is clear: when you’ve won four times, you can only have one thing in mind —to win it again.”
– Carlos Sainz Sr, Rally Driver
The Road Ahead for the Sainz Family in Dakar
As preparations intensify, the Sainz family continues to reinforce its legacy within the sport, with Carlos Sainz Jr publicly expressing pride in his father. Their mutual support and dedication to motorsport showcase the emotional and professional ties that have defined their journey. The upcoming Dakar Rally in January 2026 is set to be another compelling chapter for both men—one striving for a historic fifth win, the other drawing inspiration and admiration as he witnesses his father’s enduring passion and drive. For fans and the wider rally community, the shared moments and ambitions of the Sainz family remain at the heart of the Dakar’s enduring appeal.
