Carlos Sainz Links Up With Cycling Star Tadej Pogacar in Off-Season

Carlos Sainz is making the most of his pre-season break, training with some of the world's top athletes. The Williams driver recently posted a photo from a cycling outing with two-time Tour de France winner Tadej Pogacar, showcasing his commitment to peak fitness ahead of the 2026 F1 season. He also took time to support his father, veteran rally driver Carlos Sainz Sr., at the Dakar Rally.

Why it matters:

Sainz's activities highlight the elite-level preparation required in modern Formula 1. Training with a dominant athlete like Pogacar underscores his dedication to maintaining top physical condition, a crucial factor for performance during a grueling season. It also provides a humanizing look at the driver, balancing his professional ambitions with strong family support as his father competes in one of motorsport's most demanding events.

The details:

• Elite Company: Sainz joined Pogacar, who recently completed a historic cycling season, for a training ride. The group photo, shared on Instagram, signals a high level of focus and cross-sport discipline during his time away from the track.
• Family Ties: The F1 driver penned an emotional message to his father, Carlos Sainz Sr., a two-time Dakar Rally champion. The elder Sainz is currently competing in the 2026 edition of the legendary rally in Saudi Arabia, aiming for another title.
• Williams Context: This off-season is a pivotal one for Sainz as he fully integrates into the Williams team. After impressing in his initial races with the team last year, he is using the break to prepare for a full campaign under the new 2026 regulations.

What's next:

The focus will soon shift to the track as the 2026 F1 season approaches. Sainz's rigorous off-season preparation suggests he is determined to help Williams climb the grid and challenge for points consistently. All eyes will be on the team during pre-season testing to see how their new car and driver pairing perform under the fresh set of rules.