Carlos Sainz Jr. Impressed by Father's Dakar Driving Skills

Formula 1 driver Carlos Sainz Jr. recently experienced the thrilling world of off-road rallying, joining his father, Dakar legend Carlos Sainz Sr., for a test drive with Ford Racing's Raptor T1+.

Why it matters:

This unique father-son outing not only showcased the stark differences between F1 and rally-raid but also highlighted the immense skill required in the unforgiving Dakar Rally. For Sainz Jr., it was a profound learning experience, offering a new perspective on a discipline his father has dominated for decades.

The Details:

• Father-Son Test: Carlos Sainz Jr. rode shotgun with his father, Carlos Sainz Sr., in Ford Racing's Raptor T1+ as Sainz Sr. prepared for the 2026 Dakar Rally.
• Physical Demands: Sainz Jr. described the experience as "very physical… more physical than I thought," underscoring the intense demands on rally drivers.
• Co-driving Challenges: Initially, Sainz Jr. was taken aback by the close calls and the demanding role of a co-driver, confessing, "Like every three seconds I'm like, 'Dad, careful.'"
• Driving Impressions: When he got behind the wheel, Sainz Jr. quickly adapted, calling the Raptor T1+ "one of the best race cars I've ever driven." He noted the counter-intuitive nature of rallying, where "the faster you take a bump, the better."
• F1 vs. Rally: Sainz Jr. highlighted the significant differences, noting that in an F1 car, he doesn't go "full throttle until fourth gear," a stark contrast to off-road driving.

Between the lines:

This excursion offers a rare glimpse into the personal side of an F1 star, showing a deep appreciation for another challenging motorsport discipline. It's a testament to the diverse talents within the Sainz family and a reminder of the raw, unfiltered excitement that exists beyond the Grand Prix circuits.

What's next:

Carlos Sainz Sr. will continue his preparations with Ford Racing for the 2026 Dakar season, aiming for a stronger performance after a disappointing 2025 campaign. For Sainz Jr., it's back to the F1 grid, likely with a renewed admiration for his father's incredible achievements and the world of rally-raid.