Rebecca Donaldson recently took part in a rally car test with her partner, Carlos Sainz, as part of a Ford Racing session designed to prepare for the Dakar Rally. During the test, she could be seen being securely strapped into the vehicle before the car was pushed to its limits on a challenging off-road track. This event marked one of Donaldson’s first hands-on experiences behind the wheel in a motorsport setting, expanding her involvement beyond modeling and F1 paddock appearances.
Donaldson has been a familiar presence alongside Sainz since 2023, accompanying him in various Formula 1 events following the start of their relationship. While her career primarily revolves around modeling, her participation in the rigorous Ford test presented her with a rare chance to engage directly with competitive motorsports.
Father and Son Join Rally Test Effort with Ford Racing
The rally test also involved Sainz’s father, Carlos Sainz Sr, a highly accomplished competitor and two-time Dakar Rally champion. The duo joined forces for this Ford Racing event ahead of the Dakar Rally, with Donaldson joining the father-son pair. Donaldson shared behind-the-scenes moments on social media, highlighting preparations as she got secured into the car prior to high-speed runs on rugged terrain.
Since 2023, Carlos Sainz has moved between top Formula 1 teams. After spending the 2023 season with Ferrari, he transitioned to Williams Racing for the 2024 campaign, replacing Lewis Hamilton. His performances have been strong, with a recent third-place finish securing Williams’ first podium since 2021, bolstering the team’s position in the Constructors’ Championship.
Carlos Sainz Describes Intense Feelings During Rally Driving
Rally racing is known for its demanding nature, involving significant physical risk and the challenge of maintaining control over unpredictable terrain at maximum speed. Sainz reflected on his experience driving a rally car during the Ford test, characterizing it as a “crazy experience” that is unlike anything else in motorsports. He admitted the intense danger involved and the high stakes of every maneuver on the course.
“Right now, I’m struggling. It’s a crazy experience,” he said (via Newsweek). “It’s a massive roller coaster. I cannot explain how much risk it feels they take. It’s like it feels like they’re risking their life in every corner, in every bump, in every change of direction, every rock. Every compression feels like the last compression of your life.”
Carlos Sainz, Formula 1 Driver
Despite the appeal of rally driving, Sainz remains focused on his commitments in Formula 1. His podium for Williams signifies a resurgence for the team and has seen them surpass 100 points in the Constructors’ Championship for the first time since 2016, reflecting consistent progress throughout the season.
Impact and Future Prospects for Sainz and Donaldson in Motorsport
The rally test served as a brief but meaningful crossover between Carlos Sainz’s Formula 1 career and the rallying legacy represented by his father. For Rebecca Donaldson, participating in the test offered a decidedly physical and intense introduction to rally racing, hinting at a growing personal connection to motorsports. Their involvement highlights the blending of personal and professional worlds within high-level racing environments.
Looking ahead, Carlos Sainz’s rallying experience may open possibilities for future ventures, but his immediate priority remains achieving success with Williams in Formula 1. His recent podium underscores a promising trajectory for both the driver and his team as they seek to build on current momentum throughout the season.
